In the search for extraterrestrial life, astrobiologists Stuart Bartlett and Michael L. Wong propose that scientists avoid using the term...
GMAT Expression of Ideas : (Expression) Questions
In the search for extraterrestrial life, astrobiologists Stuart Bartlett and Michael L. Wong propose that scientists avoid using the term 'life.' _______ researchers should use another word: 'lyfe.' This new term, they argue, could be used to draw distinctions between the known characteristics of life on Earth and the potentially differing characteristics of lyfe on other planets.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Previously,
Regardless,
There,
Instead,
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| 'In the search for extraterrestrial life, astrobiologists Stuart Bartlett and Michael L. Wong propose that scientists avoid using the term 'life.'' |
|
| '______' |
|
| 'researchers should use another word: 'lyfe.'' |
|
| 'This new term, they argue, could be used to draw distinctions between the known characteristics of life on Earth and the potentially differing characteristics of lyfe on other planets.' |
|
Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: Scientists propose replacing the term 'life' with 'lyfe' when searching for extraterrestrial organisms to better distinguish between Earth-based and potentially different alien biology.
Argument Flow: The passage presents a straightforward proposal where scientists first identify a problem with current terminology, then offer a specific solution, followed by their justification for why this change would be beneficial.
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 logical relationship here is replacement or substitution
- The first sentence tells us what NOT to do (avoid using 'life')
- The sentence after the blank tells us what TO do instead (use 'lyfe')
- We need a connector that signals this switch from one option to another
Previously,
- Creates a time-based relationship that doesn't fit the logic
- Would suggest researchers used 'lyfe' in the past, which contradicts the proposal being new
Regardless,
- Suggests dismissing the previous point about avoiding 'life'
- Would imply using 'lyfe' despite the concerns about 'life,' which reverses the intended logic
There,
- Creates no logical connection between the sentences
- Would make the second sentence seem disconnected from the first
Instead,
- Perfectly signals the replacement relationship
- Shows that 'lyfe' is the alternative to 'life' that scientists should avoid
- Creates clear logic: don't use this term, use that term instead