Read the sentence, looking for clues
This sentence presents a list of characteristics. The final missing word has to be
consistent with all that's come before it. Note that the first item in the list
involves a "complete array" of facts and that the second involves "universal" rules
of logic. The missing word for the third item in the list should be an equally
definite adjective to describe the scientists' conclusions.
Predict an answer
A good prediction would be something like "complete," "absolute" or
"definite."
Select the choice that most closely matches your
prediction
(E)
categorical, meaning "absolute, without
exception," is a good match for the prediction and is the correct answer. (A)
dictatorial, "imposed by force,"
isn't justified by the sentence. (B) invaluable means "very valuable, beyond price." Nothing in the
sentence specifically suggests that the scientists' conclusions are valuable, just
that they are absolute. (C) heterodox
means "unorthodox, contrary to generally accepted opinion." There is nothing to
indicate that the conclusions necessarily go against generally accepted opinion. (D)
contested means "questioned,
disputed" and is the opposite of what is needed here.
Check your answer
According to the popular conception of the scientific process, scientists assemble
a complete array of relevant facts, evaluate them according to universal rules of
logic, and reach conclusions that are categorical.
TAKEAWAY: Each item in a list should be logically consistent with the other
items.
