Question 1
ArgumentYes; new employees with mentors settle in faster and are less likely to leave in their first year.
Watson Glaser evaluation of arguments
A question, then arguments for and against. Treat each as true and judge whether it is strong or weak.
| Questions in the test | 12 of 40 |
|---|---|
| Answers | Strong argument, weak argument |
| Strong means | Important and directly related |
| Time | About 45 seconds a question |
Weak arguments usually
- Point to tradition, popularity or what others do.
- Raise something minor or true of every option.
- Answer a different question.
Keep your own view out
An argument you disagree with can be strong, and one you like can be weak. Treat each argument as true and ask only: is it important, and does it bear directly on this question?
Try 4 questions
Should all new employees at large firms be offered a mentor in their first year?
Question 2
ArgumentNo; some mentors will be on holiday at times.
Question 3
ArgumentYes; mentoring schemes are common in the United States.
Question 4
ArgumentNo; mentoring takes up time that experienced staff would otherwise spend on their own work, which significantly raises firms' costs.
Next step
Questions people ask
Can both a yes and a no argument be strong?
Yes. Strength is about each argument, not about which side wins.
Should I judge whether the argument is true?
No. Treat every argument as true, then judge its importance and relevance.