I really think the key will be in fine-tuning your Step-by-Step strategy for EACH specific CR question-type. For example, look for specific we can get just for WEAKEN questions!
Step 1 - Identify the Question Stem
Start by reading the question-stem. You can usually tell if it's a weaken question because it will contain phrases such as "weakens" or "casts the most doubt." If the question is asking you to HURT the conclusion, it's a weaken question.
Step 2 - Break Down the Argument
Now that you know you're looking at a weaken question, you know your job is to read the passage and identify the three major parts of the argument: 1) Conclusion, 2) Evidence, and 3) Assumption. The conclusion and evidence are almost always explicitly stated in the passage for a weaken question. The assumption is usually unstated - you will need to put your analytical skills to work to identify it on your own. Do NOT break down the argument in your head. Make short organized notes using abbreviations and symbols on your scratch pad. This will hold you accountable and ensure you're properly following good CR strategy.
Step 3 - Predict an Answer
Before you can read the answer choices, write down your own pre-phrased answer. Since the argument is flawed, you might be able to think of 2-3 ways it can be weakened. Try to hone in on the BIGGEST flaw you can spot. What doesn't make logical sense?
Step 4 - Remove "Strengtheners" or "Irrelevant" Choices
Usually in a weaken question, there are only two "good" answer choices. The other three are strengthening the conclusion (doing the opposite of your prediction), or are totally irrelevant (meaning they have NO impact on the conclusion). Read all 5 choices quickly and then consider them as a group. Which ones seem like "strengtheners" or "irrelevant" options? Get rid of those using process of elimination so you can spend your valuable time honing in and evaluating just the "final two." You'll waste time if you belabor each answer choice.
Step 5 - Choose the Highest Negative Impact
If you find yourself stuck between two answer choices that both seem to have a deleterious effect on the conclusion, ask yourself: which one weakens the conclusion the most? There must be a recognizable, sizable difference between the correct answer and the second-best answer otherwise it wouldn't be a fair GMAT Critical Reasoning question. Look for subtle differences in diction and scope. Take your time when you practice to invest in studying the minutiae of answer choices. The practice of that will help you get even the toughest Weaken questions correct!
How great would it be if you could identify the best way to use your scratch paper depending on EACH question type, and anticipate the incorrect answer choices as well as the specific JOB of the correct answer.
I'd also recommend you keep a super-specific error log for each CR problem you get incorrect. Let me know if you have any more questions!
