Set 8: Transitions (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The replication crisis has revealed that many influential findings in psychology cannot be reproduced when studies are repeated under controlled conditions. This has prompted soul-searching about research practices including publication bias toward positive results. _______ some scholars argue the crisis is ultimately healthy, forcing the discipline to adopt more rigorous methodological standards.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Detailed Answer Explanation
This question asks you to choose the transition that best connects two ideas. The crisis is generally negative, but some see a silver lining. 'Viewed optimistically' signals this shift to the positive interpretation. Transitions signal the relationship between sentences or paragraphs. Determine the logical relationship (addition, contrast, cause-effect, example) and select the transition that accurately expresses it. The right transition makes the relationship between ideas crystal clear. Consider what logical connection exists: Is the second idea adding to the first? Contrasting it? Showing a result? The transition should accurately reflect this relationship.
Key Evidence:
• "replication crisis has revealed"
• "crisis is ultimately healthy"
Why others are wrong: B (Concurrent events - this is a reframing, not a parallel development.), D (Cause/effect - the optimistic view isn't a direct consequence of the crisis.), C (Example - the optimistic view is an interpretation, not an example of soul-searching.).
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