The incorrect choices in Critical Reasoning questions are not random. They are written carefully to exploit the way our brains naturally work. More specifically, they are designed to take advantage of our cognitive biases. If we read an answer choice quickly and without examining its meaning closely, it may feel correct even though it is not.

For example, imagine a Critical Reasoning question in which the argument mentions “incompetent politicians.” An incorrect choice might bring in the idea of “corruption.” The test writers know that many people associate corruption with politicians. Because of that association, test takers are often drawn toward this answer choice, even though it does not logically connect to the conclusion or the reasoning in the passage. The word feels right, but it is not right.

This type of trap exists because the goal of Critical Reasoning questions is not simply to see if you can recognize familiar words or topics. The goal is to test whether you can carefully evaluate arguments and determine how information relates logically to a conclusion. If you slow down and examine the role each choice plays, you will avoid being misled. If you rush and rely on gut reactions, you increase the chance of falling into these traps.

The key takeaway is simple. Be aware that incorrect choices are written to sound appealing. Do not reward the test writers by taking the bait. Instead, evaluate every choice against the specific task of the question. Ask yourself whether the choice actually supports, weakens, or explains the argument in the way required. If it does not, no matter how familiar or comfortable the wording may feel, it is not the correct answer.

With consistent practice, you can train yourself to recognize how these trap choices are constructed and learn to move past them with confidence. This awareness alone will improve your accuracy and help you build the logical precision needed to succeed on the GRE Verbal section.

Reach out to me with any questions about your GRE prep. Happy studying!

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep