Critical reasoning — identify implicit assumptions Statement: If you are an engineer, we have a challenging job for you. Assumptions: I. We need an engineer for the role. II. You are an engineer.

Introduction / Context:
This statement is a conditional offer: “If you are an engineer, we have a challenging job for you.” The task is to identify the minimal assumption(s) needed for such a conditional recruitment message to be sensible.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• An organization is offering a challenging job contingent on the listener being an engineer.
• Assumption I: The role requires an engineer (need for that qualification).
• Assumption II: The specific listener is indeed an engineer.

Concept / Approach:
Conditionals do not assume the antecedent is true; they merely state what happens if it is. Therefore, the statement does not presuppose that “you are an engineer.” It does presuppose that the organization actually needs an engineer; otherwise the conditional would be pointless.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Recruitment ads routinely target qualifications without assuming the candidate already meets them. The requirement (need for an engineer) underpins the statement.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Only II / Either / Both: Misread the conditional as presupposing the antecedent.
• Neither: Ignores the organization’s need that motivates the offer.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing conditional applicability with assumed truth of the condition.

Final Answer:
Only assumption I is implicit