Critical Reasoning – Implicit Assumptions Statement: “What a fool I am to rely on a trickster like Shaleen!” Assumptions: I. Shaleen is unreliable. II. I am a fool.

Introduction / Context:
The speaker reflects on relying on “a trickster like Shaleen.” Assumption questions ask which unstated beliefs must be true for the statement to make sense. We distinguish between what is presupposed and what is explicitly asserted.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The speaker labels Shaleen a “trickster.”
• Assumption I: Shaleen is unreliable.
• Assumption II: The speaker is a fool.

Concept / Approach:
Calling someone a “trickster” presupposes unreliability or deceitful behavior. The self-judgment “What a fool I am” is an explicit evaluative statement, not an assumption supporting the claim; rather, it is the claim itself. The necessary, supporting belief is that relying on a trickster is imprudent because the person is unreliable.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:

Final Answer:
Only assumption I is implicit