In 1953, biochemists James Watson and Francis Crick first identified the double helix structure of DNA through their groundbreaking research...
GMAT Expression of Ideas : (Expression) Questions
In 1953, biochemists James Watson and Francis Crick first identified the double helix structure of DNA through their groundbreaking research at Cambridge University. _____ in 1962, they were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their revolutionary discovery.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Subsequently,
However,
In summary,
That is,
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Part A: Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| "In 1953, biochemists James Watson and Francis Crick first identified the double helix structure of DNA through their groundbreaking research at Cambridge University." |
|
| [MISSING TRANSITION] |
|
| "in 1962, they were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their revolutionary discovery." |
|
Part B: Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: Watson and Crick's 1953 discovery of DNA's double helix structure led to their Nobel Prize recognition in 1962.
Argument Flow: The passage presents a clear chronological progression - first establishing the groundbreaking scientific discovery, then moving to the recognition and honor that followed years later. The relationship shows how scientific achievement leads to formal acknowledgment.
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
- We have two related events happening 9 years apart
- The first sentence describes a major scientific discovery in 1953
- The second sentence describes an award given in 1962 for that same discovery
- The logical relationship here is chronological sequence - one event happened, and then as a result of that achievement, another event followed later
- We need a transition that shows this "then" or "as a result" relationship
- So the right answer should indicate that the Nobel Prize came after and because of the DNA discovery
Subsequently,
- "Subsequently" means "after that" or "as a consequence"
- Perfect fit for showing the chronological progression from 1953 discovery to 1962 award
- Shows the Nobel Prize followed as a natural result of their groundbreaking work
However,
- "However" signals contrast or opposition
- There's no contradiction between discovering DNA structure and winning a Nobel Prize - they're complementary events
In summary,
- "In summary" is used to conclude or recap multiple points
- The second sentence isn't summarizing the first - it's presenting a new, related event
That is,
- "That is" introduces clarification or restatement of the same idea
- The Nobel Prize in 1962 isn't restating or clarifying the 1953 discovery - it's a separate consequent event