The following text is adapted from a 2019 research methodology handbook.Empirical scientists often believe that systematic observation and controlled ...
GMAT Craft and Structure : (Structure) Questions
The following text is adapted from a 2019 research methodology handbook.
Empirical scientists often believe that systematic observation and controlled experimentation can unlock nature's deepest secrets. They develop sophisticated instruments, refine measurement techniques, and construct elaborate theoretical frameworks to capture reality's essence. Yet even with our most advanced technologies and rigorous protocols, we find ourselves perpetually confronted by new layers of complexity and unexpected phenomena. The universe, it seems, is like an infinite Russian doll—each answer we uncover only reveals another mystery nested within.
Which choice best describes the function of the underlined comparison in the text as a whole?
It suggests that scientific research requires increasingly complex equipment to make meaningful discoveries.
It reinforces the text's view that empirical investigation faces inherent limitations in fully understanding reality.
It argues that systematic observation is more effective than theoretical frameworks for uncovering natural phenomena.
It implies that current research methods are outdated and need to be replaced with more sophisticated approaches.
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Part A: Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| "Empirical scientists often believe that systematic observation and controlled experimentation can unlock nature's deepest secrets." |
|
| "They develop sophisticated instruments, refine measurement techniques, and construct elaborate theoretical frameworks to capture reality's essence." |
|
| "Yet even with our most advanced technologies and rigorous protocols, we find ourselves perpetually confronted by new layers of complexity and unexpected phenomena." |
|
| "The universe, it seems, is like an infinite Russian doll—each answer we uncover only reveals another mystery nested within." |
|
Part B: Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: Despite scientists' confidence in their methods and sophisticated tools, empirical investigation reveals an endless cycle where each discovery only uncovers new layers of mystery.
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 Russian doll comparison comes at the end and serves to illustrate the main challenge the passage has been building toward
- The passage shows scientists believing they can unlock secrets, working with sophisticated tools, yet still finding endless complexity
- The metaphor captures this idea that discovery doesn't lead to final answers—it leads to more questions
It suggests that scientific research requires increasingly complex equipment to make meaningful discoveries.
- Focuses only on equipment complexity rather than the deeper point about endless discovery
- Misses that the passage shows scientists already have sophisticated equipment but still face challenges
It reinforces the text's view that empirical investigation faces inherent limitations in fully understanding reality.
- Perfectly captures how the metaphor reinforces the passage's main point about persistent limitations
- Aligns with our analysis showing the contrast between scientists' beliefs and the reality of endless complexity
It argues that systematic observation is more effective than theoretical frameworks for uncovering natural phenomena.
- The passage doesn't argue that observation is better than theory—it shows both working together but still facing limits
- Misinterprets the passage's message, which is about persistent challenges, not method preferences
It implies that current research methods are outdated and need to be replaced with more sophisticated approaches.
- The passage doesn't suggest methods are outdated—it shows even our most advanced technologies face these challenges
- Misses the point that the problem isn't with current methods but with the infinite complexity of reality itself