Can I apply China tourist visa if I have no Round-trip Airline Ticket, Hotel Booking in China?

Confused about the "The required documents for applying Tourist/Family Visit Visa (L Visa)", specifically:

4. If necessary, applicants are required to offer the Round-trip Airline Ticket, Hotel Booking in China, Traveler's Check or the Bank Deposit Certificate

What does "if necessary" mean. I am waiting for confirmation of my first destination in Hong Kong, so I have not yet confirmed my flights or hotel. But because of the holidays next week in Thailand and the Embassy closure, I want to apply for my visa now, (but cannot provide these CONFIRMED details). Will a visa be issued on this basis or not?