| Critical Reasoning Butler: August 2025 |
| August 12 | CR 1 | CR 2 |
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CR 1 The installation of geo-thermal heating in homes is known to be up to three times more expensive than the installation of standard heating methods such as oil or gas-burning heaters, fireplaces, and air conditioning. However, architects hypothesize that geo-thermal heating is still cheaper in the long run since, not relying on fuel, it has no operational expenses.
Which of the following investigations is most likely to yield significant information that would help evaluate the architects' hypothesis?
(A) Comparing the installation time of geo-thermal heating with the operational expenses of standard heating methods
(B) Comparing the monthly expenses of both standard and geo-thermal heating methods
(C) Comparing the fuel consumption rates of each of the standard heating methods
(D) Comparing the heating capacity of standard heating methods with that of geo-thermal heating
(E) Comparing the long-term operational expenses of standard heating methods with difference in installation costs of standard and geo-thermal heating
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CR 2 The State Department is a much sought after office for college graduates interested in international relations. Benjamin F., a young college graduate, is interested in international relations and would like to acquire a position in the State Department. Thus, he has decided to study French to improve his chances.
Which of the following, if true, most seriously strengthens Benjamin F.'s decision to study French?
(A) 60% of those who are accepted to the State Department know at least basic French.
(B) The percentage of French speakers among State Department workers is no different from that percentage in the general population.
(C) The Applicant's Guide to the State Department does not specify knowledge of foreign languages as a prerequisite.
(D) A strong command of Spanish is an advantage for those applying for positions in the State Department.
(E) A friend of Benjamin F.'s has recommended that Benjamin study French.