Dr. Martinez has always sought to _______ conventional research methodologies in her field, believing that rigorous adherence to established protocols...

Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage

Create Passage Analysis Table

Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements

Main Point: Dr. Martinez consistently takes some stance toward conventional research methods because she believes strict adherence to established protocols produces reliable results, despite pressure from colleagues to try experimental approaches.

Argument Flow: The passage establishes Dr. Martinez's consistent behavior toward conventional research methods, then explains her underlying belief that established protocols are essential for reliability, and finally notes this occurs despite colleagues pushing for experimental approaches. The structure creates a contrast between her position and external pressure.

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 our analysis, Dr. Martinez believes that rigorous adherence to established protocols is essential - this suggests she supports conventional methods
• The phrase even when colleagues advocate for more experimental approaches reinforces that she sticks with conventional methods despite pressure to change
• The missing word needs to show that Dr. Martinez supports or upholds conventional research methodologies, not abandons or changes them