Problem-Solving and Data AnalysisHardConclusion from an observed association
Problem-Solving and Data Analysis practice question
Researchers observed that people who own more books tend to score higher on a vocabulary test. Which of the following conclusions is best supported by this observation?
- A. Owning more books is associated with higher vocabulary scores, but the observation cannot show that owning books causes the higher scores.Correct
- B. Buying books will raise a person's vocabulary score.
- C. People with large vocabularies buy books to display them.
- D. The vocabulary test is unreliable.
Answer: A. Owning more books is associated with higher vocabulary scores, but the observation cannot show that owning books causes the higher scores.
An observed association does not establish cause.
Why the other answers are wrong
- B. Buying books will raise a person's vocabulary score.
- This assumes a cause the observation cannot show.
- C. People with large vocabularies buy books to display them.
- This assumes the reverse cause, equally unshown.
- D. The vocabulary test is unreliable.
- Nothing suggests the test is at fault.
More Problem-Solving and Data Analysis questions
- Hard
The mean of five numbers is 12. If four of them are 8, 10, 14, and 16, what is the fifth number? - Hard
In a survey of 50 people, 30 like coffee, 20 like tea, and 8 like both. How many like neither? - Hard
A car travels at 60 mph for 2 hours, then 40 mph for 3 hours. What is its average speed for the whole trip? - Hard
Which statement correctly compares the standard deviations of the two sets? - Hard
Which statement best interprets the slope of the line of best fit? - Hard
How many milliliters of the 40% acid solution must the chemist add?
Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.