Deductive Reasoning
Definition
Deductive reasoning starts out with a general statement or hypothesis and examines the possibilities to reach a specific logical conclusion.
Analogy
Deductive reasoning is like baking bread using a recipe. You start with your list of ingredients (general statement), follow each step precisely (examining possibilities), and if everything was done correctly, you end up with a loaf of bread (specific conclusion).
Related terms
Logic: The process of reasoning conducted or assessed according to strict principles of validity.
Syllogism: A form of reasoning in which a conclusion is drawn from two given or assumed propositions.
Hypothesis: A proposed explanation for a phenomenon made as a starting point for further investigation.
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