Here is the key idea. To consistently answer Critical Reasoning questions correctly, you need to rely on clear, logical thinking rather than vague impressions or instincts. Every choice you make should be supported by sound reasoning that directly connects to the argument presented.

Consider an example. Suppose a CR question presents a conclusion that a particular plan will succeed, and the correct answer must strengthen that conclusion. If you rely on something vague, you might choose an answer that merely sounds positive, such as “the mayor supports the plan” or “the plan will not harm natural habitats.” While both statements might seem favorable, neither directly proves that the plan will actually work. The key question is whether the answer truly supports the conclusion that the plan will succeed. If your reasoning is unclear, you are guessing, and guesswork is never a reliable strategy.

When we approach CR questions with vague reasoning, our performance tends to fluctuate. We may get a few questions right and feel confident, only to miss others without understanding why. This inconsistency can make progress frustratingly slow, because without a clear method, we have no way to identify what is working and what is not.

Now imagine the opposite approach. When you use precise logic, every decision you make has a clear purpose. You can explain exactly why an answer choice is incorrect or why another one strengthens or weakens the argument. Over time, this clarity builds consistency. You begin to recognize the underlying logical structures that CR questions are designed to test, and your accuracy improves naturally.

The goal is not to memorize tricks or patterns, but to think critically in a structured and disciplined way. That is how you move from hit-or-miss performance to consistent success. Each question becomes an opportunity to practice reasoning carefully, step by step, until logical thinking becomes second nature.

By supporting every move you make with solid logic, you gain more than just correct answers. You build confidence in your process, and that confidence is what leads to sustained improvement and reliable results on test day.

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep