To test water quality in a contaminated lake, environmental scientists collect samples from multiple locations during the morning. Next, they...
GMAT Expression of Ideas : (Expression) Questions
To test water quality in a contaminated lake, environmental scientists collect samples from multiple locations during the morning. Next, they transport these samples to the laboratory under controlled temperature conditions. They then analyze each sample using spectroscopy equipment, a process that requires several hours of careful measurement. _____ the research team compiles their findings into a comprehensive data report.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Finally,
In contrast,
Similarly,
For example,
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Part A: Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| 'To test water quality in a contaminated lake, environmental scientists collect samples from multiple locations during the morning.' |
|
| 'Next, they transport these samples to the laboratory under controlled temperature conditions.' |
|
| 'They then analyze each sample using spectroscopy equipment, a process that requires several hours of careful measurement.' |
|
| '[MISSING TRANSITION]' |
|
| 'the research team compiles their findings into a comprehensive data report.' |
|
Part B: Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: Environmental scientists follow a systematic multi-step process to test water quality, from sample collection through final reporting.
Argument Flow: The passage presents a chronological sequence of scientific procedures. It starts with sample collection in the field, moves through transportation and laboratory analysis, and ends with data compilation and reporting.
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
- Looking at our passage analysis, we have a clear sequence of steps that scientists follow
- The blank comes right before the final step - compiling findings into a report
- What comes before the blank describes the third step (analyzing samples with spectroscopy), and what comes after describes the final step (compiling the report)
- The logical connector needs to signal that this is the concluding step in the sequence
- We need a transition that indicates 'this is the final step' or 'this is what happens at the end of the process'
Finally,
✓ Correct
- 'Finally' signals that this is the concluding step in the sequential process
- Perfectly matches the logical flow from analysis to final data compilation
- Creates the right relationship between the multi-hour analysis and the concluding report compilation
In contrast,
✗ Incorrect
- 'In contrast' signals opposition or difference between ideas
- Makes no sense here since compiling findings doesn't contrast with analyzing samples
Similarly,
✗ Incorrect
- 'Similarly' indicates likeness or parallel actions
- Doesn't fit because compiling findings isn't similar to analyzing samples - it's the next step
For example,
✗ Incorrect
- 'For example' introduces a specific instance to illustrate a general point
- The data compilation isn't an example of analysis - it's what happens after analysis