Q3 - The master plan for the new park

[mshinners]

Question Type:
Strengthen

Stimulus Breakdown:
Plan: Plant native trees that don't get too big.
The trees were bought form a place that sells mostly native trees.
Conclusion: The plan is being followed by these donations!

Answer Anticipation:
An exception was placed in the plan on the native trees to be used - they're not using the big ones. That exception isn't mentioned when talking about from where the trees will be purchased. It's likely the correct answer will state that Three Rivers Nursery doesn't carry the big trees.

Correct answer:
(E)

Answer choice analysis:
(A) Contradicted. This answer choice runs counter to the stated premise.

(B) Opposite. Cottonwoods are excluded from the plan, so if 3RN sells them, it makes it more likely we're violating the plan.

(C) No impact. Shrubs align with the plan. This answer also only talks about "many" of the species, which leaves open many other species to be any kind of tree.

(D) Out of scope. Non-native tree species are out of the scope of the plan.

(E) Bingo. 3RN sells native species, and this answer informs us they don't sell the ones that are excepted from the plan. This increases the likelihood that the donated trees conform to the plan.

Takeaway/Pattern:
When an exception is noted, pay attention - it's almost always what the question turns on.

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