Logical reasoning — Pens, colors, and writing (choose the statement that must be true) Facts: Some pens don't write. All blue pens write. Some writing utensils are pens. Which statement must also be a fact?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: None of the statements is a known fact.

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question requires strict adherence to the given facts without importing everyday knowledge (e.g., “pens are writing utensils”). Although that is usually true, statement 3 only says “Some writing utensils are pens,” which is weaker than “All pens are writing utensils.” We must avoid assuming more than is stated.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Exist at least some nonfunctioning pens.
  • All blue pens are functioning (they write).
  • There exists at least one pen that is a writing utensil; however, it is not stated that all pens are writing utensils.


Concept / Approach:
We test each candidate for necessity across all models consistent with the premises. To affirm I or II, we would need guaranteed overlap between the nonwriting pens or blue pens and the subset “writing utensils.” The facts do not force that overlap.



Step-by-Step Solution:

I: “Some writing utensils don't write.” We do not know whether any of the nonwriting pens are among the pens that are writing utensils. It is possible (consistent with the facts) that all nonwriting pens fall outside the “writing utensil” subset mentioned. Not a must.II: “Some writing utensils are blue.” Existence of blue pens is not stated; “All blue pens write” is conditional, not existential. Even if blue pens exist, we do not know whether any blue pen lies in the “writing utensil” subset. Not a must.III: “Some blue writing utensils don't write.” This is incompatible with “All blue pens write,” and we have no other blue writing utensils in evidence. Not a must.


Verification / Alternative check:
Create a model where only black pens exist, some don't write, and the subset of pens that are “writing utensils” are all functioning. All premises hold, but I and II fail; hence none is necessary.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • I only / I and II only / II and III only / I and III only: Each includes at least one statement not forced by the premises.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming “all pens are writing utensils” or assuming the existence of blue pens not stated by the facts.



Final Answer:
None of the statements is a known fact.

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