Statement: ‘Z-TV, the only TV that lets viewers watch two programmes simultaneously’ — an advertisement. Assumptions: I. Sales of Z-TV may increase because of this advertisement. II. Some people may be influenced by the advertisement and buy Z-TV. III. The current sales of Z-TV may already be on a downward trend.
Correct Answer: I and II are implicit
Introduction / Context:Statement–Assumption questions test whether given assumptions must be taken as true for a statement to make sense. Here, an advertisement claims Z-TV uniquely allows watching two programmes simultaneously. We must identify which assumptions the advertiser is relying on to justify issuing this message.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- The ad highlights a differentiating feature (two programmes at once).
- Advertisements are normally issued to influence buyers and improve sales.
- No explicit information is given about past sales trends.
Concept / Approach:In these items, an assumption is something the author must be presuming for the statement (or act) to be meaningful. It need not be definitively true; it must be reasonably taken for granted by the advertiser.
Step-by-Step Solution:Check I: If the advertiser does not expect sales to increase, running the ad would have little purpose. Hence I is reasonably implicit.Check II: Ads are meant to persuade at least some people; otherwise advertising is pointless. Therefore II is implicit.Check III: A downward sales trend is not required for the ad to be meaningful. Ads are run both in good and bad times. III is not implicit.
Verification / Alternative check:Even if current sales were steady or rising, a firm could still advertise to gain more market share. Thus III is unnecessary.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- II and III are implicit: false because III is not needed.
- None is implicit: false because I and II are needed.
- All are implicit: false as III fails.
- Only II is implicit: false; I is also needed.
Common Pitfalls:Do not confuse “possible” with “assumed”. The advertiser need not assume bad current sales to advertise.
Final Answer:I and II are implicit.