The following text is adapted from a 2019 research methodology handbook. Dr. Chen refers to Dr. Sarah Chen, a behavioral...
GMAT Craft and Structure : (Structure) Questions
The following text is adapted from a 2019 research methodology handbook. Dr. Chen refers to Dr. Sarah Chen, a behavioral psychologist.
Dr. Chen's laboratory protocols were systematically structured to ensure that each experimental variable could be measured independently without contamination from external factors. This methodical approach eliminated the procedural inconsistencies that had compromised earlier research findings in the field. The clear framework allowed multiple research teams to replicate studies with reliable results.
As used in the text, what does the word "structured" most nearly mean?
Timed
Organized
Funded
Documented
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Part A: Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| "Dr. Chen's laboratory protocols were systematically structured to ensure that each experimental variable could be measured independently without contamination from external factors." |
|
| "This methodical approach eliminated the procedural inconsistencies that had compromised earlier research findings in the field." |
|
| "The clear framework allowed multiple research teams to replicate studies with reliable results." |
|
Part B: Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: Dr. Chen's systematic approach to organizing laboratory protocols solved problems that had plagued earlier research and enabled reliable replication.
Step 2: Interpret the Question Precisely
This is a fill-in-the-blank question asking us to choose the best logical connector. The answer must create the right relationship between what comes before and after the blank.
Step 3: Prethink the Answer
- Looking at how "structured" is used: "Dr. Chen's laboratory protocols were systematically structured..." The word "systematically" is a huge clue here
- The protocols were arranged in a systematic way - meaning they were organized methodically
- The purpose was "to ensure that each experimental variable could be measured independently" - this reinforces that we're talking about careful organization and arrangement
- The rest of the passage talks about this "methodical approach" and "clear framework," which all point to organization and systematic arrangement
- So the right answer should mean organized or arranged in a systematic way
Timed
✗ Incorrect
- This would suggest the protocols were set up according to specific time schedules
- Nothing in the passage mentions timing or schedules - the focus is on systematic arrangement for measurement accuracy
Organized
✓ Correct
- This perfectly matches the context - protocols that are "systematically organized"
- Fits with the passage's emphasis on "methodical approach" and "clear framework"
- Makes sense with the goal of ensuring independent measurement of variables
Funded
✗ Incorrect
- This would mean the protocols received financial support
- The passage focuses on how the protocols were arranged, not how they were financed
- No mention of money or financial resources anywhere in the text
Documented
✗ Incorrect
- This would suggest the protocols were recorded or written down
- While documentation might be part of good lab practices, the passage emphasizes systematic arrangement for measurement purposes, not record-keeping