When analyzing the potential impact of proposed zoning modifications on local traffic flow, city planner Maria Santos consistently employs digital...
GMAT Expression of Ideas : (Expression) Questions
When analyzing the potential impact of proposed zoning modifications on local traffic flow, city planner Maria Santos consistently employs digital simulation software to model vehicle movement patterns. ______ the planning team performs field observations during rush hour periods, since this supplies actual data that supplements the computer-generated forecasts.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Additionally,
Nevertheless,
Therefore,
On the other hand,
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| "When analyzing the potential impact of proposed zoning modifications on local traffic flow, city planner Maria Santos consistently employs digital simulation software to model vehicle movement patterns." |
|
| "[MISSING TRANSITION]" |
|
| "the planning team performs field observations during rush hour periods" |
|
| "since this supplies actual data that supplements the computer-generated forecasts." |
|
Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: City planner Maria Santos uses both digital simulation software and field observations to analyze traffic patterns comprehensively.
Argument Flow: The passage establishes Maria's use of digital simulation as her consistent method, then introduces field observations as another approach the team uses, explaining that this real-world data enhances the computer-generated information.
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 analysis, we see that Maria uses digital simulation software as her main method
- Then we have field observations being performed by the team
- The explanation tells us that field observations provide actual data that supplements (adds to) the computer forecasts
- The relationship here is additive - the team is doing field observations IN ADDITION TO the digital simulation work
- Both methods are being used together, with the field observations adding real-world data to complement the computer models
Additionally,
- "Additionally" signals that field observations are being done in addition to the digital simulation
- Creates the perfect additive relationship - both methods working together
- Matches our analysis that field observations supplement (add to) the computer-generated data
Nevertheless,
- "Nevertheless" signals contrast or opposition
- Would suggest the field observations contradict or work against the simulation software
Therefore,
- "Therefore" signals cause-and-effect relationship
- Would suggest field observations are a result of using simulation software
- The passage shows these are parallel methods, not sequential steps
On the other hand,
- "On the other hand" signals contrast between alternatives
- Would suggest choosing between simulation OR field observation