GMAT Verbal
Verbal Elimination
Remove answer choices that are too extreme, outside scope, logically reversed, or subtly distorted.
Principle
Elimination works only when you know the task.
First identify what the question requires, then remove choices that fail that requirement.
Extreme
Too extreme means stronger than the evidence supports.
Words such as always or never are risky when the passage or argument supports only a limited claim.
Scope
Outside scope introduces a new issue.
A choice can sound intelligent and still be wrong because the passage never gives you a basis to judge it.
Logic reversal
Reversed logic flips cause, effect, or direction.
Evidence that A is associated with B does not automatically mean B caused A or that A caused B.
Distortion
A distorted answer is often half true.
It may borrow language from the passage but alter the comparison, degree, timeframe, or conclusion.
Comparison base
Check the comparison base.
Especially in CR and DI-style verbal reasoning, an answer can compare the wrong groups or periods while using correct-looking numbers or terms.
Checklist
A quick elimination sequence
- 01Does it answer the exact question?
- 02Is it supported by the text or logic?
- 03Is its scope and strength justified?
- 04Does it preserve the original direction and comparison?
Mini application
Try this: the passage says "some firms reduced costs." An answer says "all firms reduced costs."
What is the flaw?
Solution
The answer is too strong.
"Some" does not support "all." The choice expands the claim beyond the evidence.
Remember this
Correct answers must match task, evidence, scope, and strength.
Eliminate choices for a specific logical reason, not because they merely feel wrong.