Dr. Maria Santos' _____ both computational modeling and field observation has led to breakthrough discoveries in her 2019 study on...
GMAT Craft and Structure : (Structure) Questions
Dr. Maria Santos' _____ both computational modeling and field observation has led to breakthrough discoveries in her 2019 study on climate patterns, where she successfully integrates complex computer simulations with extensive real-world data collection.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
mastery of
skepticism toward
confusion about
detachment from
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| "Dr. Maria Santos' _______ both computational modeling and field observation" |
|
| "[MISSING WORD/PHRASE]" |
|
| "has led to breakthrough discoveries in her 2019 study on climate patterns," |
|
| "where she successfully integrates complex computer simulations with extensive real-world data collection." |
|
Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: Dr. Santos' relationship with both computational modeling and field observation has enabled significant scientific breakthroughs through successful integration of both approaches.
Argument Flow: The passage establishes that Dr. Santos has some relationship with two research methods, shows this relationship led to breakthrough discoveries, and then explains how she successfully combines both methods to achieve these results.
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
- The missing word must describe Dr. Santos' relationship with both computational modeling and field observation
- This relationship must be positive since it "led to breakthrough discoveries"
- The word must make sense with the evidence that she "successfully integrates" both methods
- So the right answer should describe a positive, skilled relationship with both research methods that would logically lead to breakthrough discoveries
mastery of
✓ Correct
- Creates logical flow: her expertise with both methods → breakthrough discoveries
- Fits perfectly with the evidence that she "successfully integrates" both approaches
skepticism toward
✗ Incorrect
- Doesn't make logical sense - being skeptical of research methods wouldn't lead to breakthrough discoveries
- Contradicts the evidence that she successfully uses both methods
confusion about
✗ Incorrect
- Being confused about research methods wouldn't lead to breakthrough discoveries
- Directly contradicts the successful integration described in the passage
detachment from
✗ Incorrect
- Being detached from research methods wouldn't lead to breakthrough discoveries
- Contradicts her successful integration of both approaches