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Scoring 329 on the GRE is not always about using more books, more courses, or a longer study plan. In this episode of GRE Success Talks, Ashutosh shares his GRE preparation strategy, study plan, and test-day experience, explaining how he kept his prep....
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29 Jul 2025, 18:30
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yazlal25
The main issue with (D) is that we would have to assume that harsh winters are a threat to the young voles. Perhaps the voles, young and older, are perfectly adapted to the cold and have safe, warm shelters, etc.
Also, if the harsh winters were a problem, it would be a little odd that the voles remain in large groups all the way through winter. We'd likely expect an earlier drop off in group size if that were the case.
(E) is a better option because it gets right to a specific threat to the young voles: the snakes.
22 Sep 2025, 23:25
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Thought about this with some different perspective: Winters because is harsh, with temperatures near to freezing point, rodents tend to be in large groups(maybe being in a gp giving each other's company ,or being close keeps them warm) which can be deduced from D. On the other hand, E says that snakes active from spring to autumn, still gp strength is low, sounding like a weakener. Could you please help things clarify? @MartyMurray @ Karishma B.
23 Sep 2025, 05:26
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Aishna1034
Aishna1034 I'll add my two cents- Looking at your analysis, I can see why you're confused - you're thinking creatively about why voles might group together, but that's actually leading you away from the correct answer. Let me help clarify the key issue here.
Your reasoning about option D (voles huddling for warmth) is logical in the real world, but it's not what the argument is claiming. The argument specifically states that the group size variation is caused by "seasonal variation in mortality among young voles." We need evidence that young voles die more in certain seasons, not alternative explanations for grouping behavior.
Why Option E is the Strengthener (Not a Weakener)
Let me trace the logical chain for you:
- Spring through early autumn: Snakes are active → They prey on young voles → Young voles die → Groups become smaller
- Late autumn through winter: Snakes are inactive → Young voles survive → Groups remain large (includes multiple litters as mentioned)
Option E directly provides the mechanism for why young vole mortality varies by season, which perfectly explains the group size pattern.
Why Option D Doesn't Work
Option D tells us winters are harsh, but:
- It doesn't mention mortality of young voles specifically
- It suggests an alternative explanation (temperature-based grouping) rather than supporting the given explanation
- Even if cold kills voles, it would affect all voles, not specifically the young
Here is a framework that you can follow while approaching Strengthen questions:
- If the conclusion states a specific cause → Look for answer that provides evidence of that exact cause
- If the conclusion is about a mechanism → Find answer that shows how the mechanism works
- Avoid answers that provide alternative explanations (they actually weaken!)
Key Takeaway: In GMAT CR, stick to what the argument claims. Don't add outside knowledge or alternative theories - support the exact explanation given.
