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Main point LSAT questions ask for an argument's conclusion. Learn how to separate conclusions from support, use the therefore test and avoid traps.
Quick answer: a Main Point question asks you to find the argument’s main conclusion. Do not add anything or judge whether it is right. Find the claim the rest of the argument is trying to prove, then pick the answer that restates it.
Which one of the following most accurately expresses the main conclusion of the argument?
The main point of the argument is that…
Which one of the following most accurately states the overall conclusion?
How to Solve Main Point Questions
Find each claim in the argument.
Ask which claim the others support.
Use the “therefore” test. Say “this, therefore that” in both directions and see which sounds right.
Look for hints such as “but,” “however” and “thus,” without trusting them blindly.
Pick the answer that matches the claim you found.
Main Point Questions Example
This is a practice example we wrote to show the idea. It is not a real LSAT question.
Argument: Our city should raise the gas tax. Many roads are falling apart, and road funds have been flat for ten years.
Question: What is the main conclusion?
Best answer: The city should raise the gas tax.
Why: The road problems and flat funds are reasons. They support the idea of raising the tax, so the tax claim is the conclusion, even though it comes first.
Common Traps
Picking a supporting premise that sounds important.
A middle step that supports the final conclusion but is not it.
An answer that goes further than the author did.
Assuming the last sentence is always the conclusion.
Main Point Questions FAQ
Is the conclusion always the last sentence?
No. It often comes first or in the middle.
What is an intermediate conclusion?
A claim that is supported by one reason and then supports the main conclusion.
