GRE General TestVerbal ReasoningMedium
A neuroscientist, studying decision-making, discovered that the human brain often relies on cognitive shortcuts, or heuristics, when faced with complex choices, rather than engaging in a more ______ and effortful analytical process.
- Adeliberate
- Bspontaneous
- Cintuitive
- Dimpulsive
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. deliberate
The sentence contrasts 'cognitive shortcuts, or heuristics' with a 'more ______ and effortful analytical process.' Shortcuts are quick and less effortful. Therefore, the blank needs a word that describes the opposite: a thoughtful, unhurried, and careful process. 'Deliberate' fits this description.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 'Spontaneous' means happening or arising without apparent external cause; unplanned, which also aligns with shortcuts and not a careful process.
- C. 'Intuitive' means using or based on what one feels to be true without conscious reasoning, similar to shortcuts and not an effortful process.
- D. 'Impulsive' means acting or doing without forethought, which is similar to shortcuts and contradicts the 'effortful analytical process'.
Cognitive Shortcuts vs. Deliberation
A contrast between quick, automatic mental processes (heuristics) and slow, effortful, and analytical reasoning.
- Often involves comparing 'fast thinking' with 'slow thinking.'
- Clues include 'shortcuts,' 'heuristics,' 'rather than,' and descriptors like 'effortful,' 'analytical.'
- The blank typically describes the characteristics of the deliberate process.
Memory trick: Fast paths and slow, deep dives, choosing wisely helps us thrive.