An increase in the reserve ratio decreases the size of the monetary multiplier.
Here's a brief explanation:
The monetary multiplier is calculated as \( \frac{1}{\text{reserve ratio}} \). When the reserve ratio increases, the denominator of this fraction increases, resulting in a smaller multiplier. This means that banks are required to hold a larger portion of deposits as reserves, which reduces their ability to lend out money. Consequently, the overall money supply in the economy is affected, leading to a decrease in the monetary multiplier.
Therefore, the correct answer is:
decreases the size of the monetary multiplier.