Critical Reasoning

Antonio: Although many attorneys stress the importance of writing a will to govern the distribution of one’s property upon death, most people would be better off not drafting a will. Intestacy laws govern the disposition of the estates, the financial assets and personal belongings, of people who die without wills. These laws generally divide the deceased’s assets among the surviving spouse and children, if any. Because most people would choose a similar division of property if they drafted wills, they should avoid the expense of hiring an attorney to draft a will.

Beatrice: But the distribution of assets is not the only function handled by a will. The document also determines the guardianship of minor children if both parents are dead. Thus, a will can serve a useful purpose even if the distribution of assets would be the same as that under intestacy laws.

Which of the following best describes the roles played by the bolded phrases in the discussion above?


The first phrase states an exception to a general principle, and the second restates that principle.

The first phrase states a position, and the second provides evidence supporting an alternate position.

The first phrase presents factual evidence, and the second disputes the accuracy of that evidence.

The first phrase states the conclusion of an argument, and the second contradicts a premise upon which the conclusion is based.

The first phrase contradicts generally accepted beliefs, and the second describes a specific example of those beliefs.

D for me.

IMO B

And reasons for B ?

What is the OA?

IMO B

Using POE we can shortlist B and D

I would eliminate option D because "and the second contradicts a premise upon which the conclusion is based. " is not correct way of putting it I feel.

The second phrase doesnt completely oppose the premise upon which first phrase is built , rather it adds additional details by saying that "the distribution of assets is not the only function handled by a will" .If you observe it says that will handles distribution of assets thereby approving the premise on which first phrase is built and it also says there are more reasons to drafting a will.

So I would eliminate D.

OA is B

Cannot decide between D and B. Can anyone brake down these two choices for me please