Deductive vs. Inductive Reasoning

Deductive vs. Inductive Reasoning


Deductive and inductive reasoning are two different methods used to come to a conclusion based on given information. Deductive reasoning comes to a specific conclusion based on generalizations. Inductive reasoning uses events and makes generalizations. Deductive reasoning starts with simple statements and builds up to more complex ones. Inductive reasoning is basically the opposite in that it uses specific instances to create general statements. 


An example of using deductive and inductive reasoning is as follows:

Deductive
Flowers need sunlight to survive. A rose is a flower. Therefore, a rose needs sunlight to survive.


Inductive
Johnny plays basketball and is a boy. Tom plays soccer and is a boy. Tyler plays football and is a boy. Therefore, boys play or like to play sports.