Research scientists studying marine ecosystems employ specialized sampling techniques that allow them to collect data from various ocean depths and...
GMAT Expression of Ideas : (Expression) Questions
Research scientists studying marine ecosystems employ specialized sampling techniques that allow them to collect data from various ocean depths and environments. ______ researchers might use plankton nets to capture microscopic organisms or sediment corers to extract seafloor samples.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
For instance,
In contrast,
Nevertheless,
Subsequently,
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Part A: Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| "Research scientists studying marine ecosystems employ specialized sampling techniques that allow them to collect data from various ocean depths and environments." |
|
| "[MISSING TRANSITION]" |
|
| "researchers might use plankton nets to capture microscopic organisms or sediment corers to extract seafloor samples." |
|
Part B: Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Visual Structure Map:
[GENERAL STATEMENT: Scientists use specialized sampling techniques] → [MISSING CONNECTOR] → [SPECIFIC EXAMPLES: plankton nets, sediment corers]
Main Point: Marine ecosystem researchers use various specialized sampling techniques to collect data from different ocean environments.
Argument Flow: The passage introduces a general concept (specialized sampling techniques) and then provides specific examples of what these techniques include.
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
Let's first think about what the right answer should tell us:
- Looking at our analysis, we have a general statement about sampling techniques followed by specific examples of those techniques
- The logical relationship needed here is one that signals "here are examples of what I just mentioned"
- We need a transition that introduces illustrations or examples of the concept just presented
- So the right answer should be a connector that signals the upcoming examples are specific instances of the general sampling techniques mentioned in the first sentence
For instance,
- "For instance" perfectly signals that specific examples are coming
- This matches exactly what we need - a transition from general concept to specific examples
- Creates the logical flow: general statement → specific illustrations
In contrast,
- "In contrast" signals opposition or difference between ideas
- There's no contrast here - both sentences discuss the same topic of sampling techniques
- What trap this represents: Students might think there's a contrast between "techniques" and specific tools, but these are actually examples of the same concept
Nevertheless,
- "Nevertheless" suggests concession or "despite that"
- Implies the second part contradicts or works against the first part
- Nothing in the passage suggests any contradiction or obstacle
Subsequently,
- "Subsequently" indicates time sequence or chronological order
- The passage isn't describing steps in time but rather giving examples
- What trap this represents: Students might think this describes a research process sequence, but the passage is simply categorizing types of techniques, not describing when they're used