🧠 GRE Exam Prep

An argument states: "Since 'Happy Paws' pet store saw a 20% increase in dog food sales after they started playing classical music in their store, it's clear that classical music makes customers more likely to buy dog food." Which of the following alternative explanations would most strongly undermine the conclusion?

A Pet store owners in general prefer classical music.
B During the same period, a major competitor's store in the same area closed down, and a new, popular dog park opened nearby.
C Surveys showed that a small percentage of customers found the classical music irritating.
D The pet store also started selling premium dog accessories at the same time.

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

The argument attributes increased sales solely to classical music. Providing other plausible, significant reasons for the sales increase (like competitor closure or a new dog park bringing more dog owners to the area) directly weakens the original conclusion by offering strong alternative causes.

Related GRE Exam Prep Questions