PrepTest 118, Section 4, Question 4
Computer manufacturers and retailers tell us that the(68 more words not shown)
Which one of the following,(7 more words not shown)
- APersonal computer instruction(10 more words not shown)
- BSoftware for accessories(6 more words not shown)
- CInstalling an accessory(8 more words not shown)
- DA personal computer(14 more words not shown)
- EComputer manufacturers rarely(13 more words not shown)
Reading the argument
If adding a modem can stop my printer from working, I can see why someone would find the setup difficult. Knowing how to use a computer doesn't automatically mean knowing how to connect every accessory.
The author gives us switches, unfamiliar specifications, and software that can interfere with other software. Those are understandable concerns. But keep the actual conclusion in view: this complexity is a widespread obstacle to using computers. We need to know whether the difficulties described really get in users' way.
What we’re looking for
We're asked to weaken the argument. My first thought is that perhaps the setup is simpler than the author makes it sound. Clear, easy-to-follow instructions might let ordinary users handle it. But an answer would have to show that the problem is manageable, not just mention the existence of a manual. Let's see whether a choice supports that idea or gives another reason these installation difficulties aren't a widespread obstacle.
Working the answers
- A
Explaining something doesn't make it easy. A textbook can explain advanced calculus and still leave a reader struggling to do it. Likewise, a manual could explain what a switch is for without making the whole installation simple. A doesn't establish that ordinary users can readily overcome the difficulties described.
- B
The price of the software isn't the problem the author identifies. Free software could still be hard to install or interfere with other accessories. This changes what customers pay without showing that the installation obstacle disappears.
- C
The argument is about the current obstacle. Installation becoming easy later would be welcome, but it doesn't show that today's users aren't struggling. A future improvement can coexist with a present problem.
- DCorrect
This takes a different route from the initial prediction: users usually don't have to do the installation themselves. The computer comes with accessories and free installation. Someone can therefore use the equipment without personally figuring out the switches and software interactions.
Installation might still be technically difficult. D doesn't need to show otherwise. It weakens the inference from “these tasks are difficult for customers” to “these tasks are a widespread obstacle to computer use” by showing that the usual package lets customers avoid doing them.
- E
This gives us less reason to expect manufacturers to make installation easy. If ease of installation rarely enters their decisions, that fits the concern that customers may face difficult setups. It doesn't show that the stated difficulties are harmless or easy to avoid.
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