Text 1In scientific research, debates persist about the relative value of different methodological approaches. Dr. James Chen has built his...
GMAT Craft and Structure : (Structure) Questions
In scientific research, debates persist about the relative value of different methodological approaches. Dr. James Chen has built his career primarily through quantitative work, with statistical analysis forming the backbone of his published studies. Mathematical modeling and numerical data characterize Chen's research approach, establishing his reputation in the field. Chen does recognize that qualitative methods can offer supplementary value to research findings.
Text 2
Chen's actual research practice reveals regular incorporation of interview data, case studies, and observational findings alongside his statistical work. This integration of multiple research approaches strengthens his conclusions, demonstrating that he combines quantitative and qualitative elements routinely. Critics who suggest Chen dismisses qualitative methods overlook this integrated approach that defines his methodology.
Based on the texts, both authors would most likely agree with which statement?
Statistical analysis should be the primary method in scientific research.
Chen's research incorporates both quantitative and qualitative elements.
Critics have misunderstood Chen's methodological preferences.
Interview data provides more reliable insights than statistical analysis.
Looking at this Cross-Text Connections question, I need to find what both authors would agree on regarding Dr. Chen's research approach. Let me work through this systematically.
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Part A: Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| Text 1: "In scientific research, debates persist about the relative value of different methodological approaches." |
|
| "Dr. James Chen has built his career primarily through quantitative work, with statistical analysis forming the backbone of his published studies." |
|
| "Mathematical modeling and numerical data characterize Chen's research approach, establishing his reputation in the field." |
|
| "Chen does recognize that qualitative methods can offer supplementary value to research findings." |
|
| Text 2: "Chen's actual research practice reveals regular incorporation of interview data, case studies, and observational findings alongside his statistical work." |
|
| "This integration of multiple research approaches strengthens his conclusions, demonstrating that he combines quantitative and qualitative elements routinely." |
|
| "Critics who suggest Chen dismisses qualitative methods overlook this integrated approach that defines his methodology." |
|
Part B: Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: While Dr. Chen is publicly known primarily for quantitative research, his actual practice involves regularly integrating both quantitative and qualitative methods.
Step 2: Interpret the Question Precisely
What's being asked? We need to identify a statement that both authors (of Text 1 and Text 2) would most likely agree with.
What type of answer do we need? A point of agreement or common ground between the two different perspectives presented.
Any limiting keywords? "Both authors" is crucial—the answer must be supported by information in both texts, not just one.
Step 3: Prethink the Answer
- The correct answer must be something that both texts support
- Text 1 shows Chen is known for quantitative work but recognizes qualitative value
- Text 2 reveals he actually incorporates both types regularly
- The common ground would be that Chen's research involves both quantitative and qualitative elements in some capacity
Statistical analysis should be the primary method in scientific research.
✗ Incorrect
- Claims statistical analysis should be the primary method for scientific research generally.
- Text 1 doesn't advocate for this universal principle—it just describes Chen's approach
- Text 2 actually suggests integration is valuable, not statistical primacy
Chen's research incorporates both quantitative and qualitative elements.
✓ Correct
- States that Chen's research incorporates both quantitative and qualitative elements.
- Text 1 supports this: Chen does quantitative work AND recognizes qualitative methods offer supplementary value
- Text 2 directly confirms this: Chen "combines quantitative and qualitative elements routinely"
- Both texts agree Chen works with both types of methods
Critics have misunderstood Chen's methodological preferences.
✗ Incorrect
- Claims critics have misunderstood Chen's methodological preferences.
- Only Text 2 explicitly mentions critics
- Text 1 makes no reference to critics or misunderstandings
Interview data provides more reliable insights than statistical analysis.
✗ Incorrect
- Suggests interview data provides more reliable insights than statistical analysis.
- Neither text makes any claim about the relative reliability of different methods
- Both texts focus on integration rather than ranking methods