Verbal Question of the Day

Since Java coffee shop began advertising on the local radio station 3 months ago, its business volume has increased by 15%. In order to increase its business volume, Java’s next door competitor, Kahva, should also start advertising on the local radio station.

Which of the following most weakens the argument’s conclusion?

A. Kahva’s number of customers went down 15% last year.

B. Of the 9 coffee shops that advertised on the local radio, only Java’s business increased.

C. 78% of the businesses that advertise on the local radio report an increase in business volume.

D. The local radio station has over 10,000 listeners.

E. The local radio station dedicates 15% of its air time to commercials.

Explanation of correct answer (B):

This answer choice weakens the argument’s second assumption that the example of Java’s case is something that may apply to all coffee shops that advertise. It does so by stating that the success rate of radio commercials for coffee shops is 1 out of 12.