Deductive and Inductive Reasoning

Inductive and deductive reasoning are two methods of reasoning used to form a conclusion based on certain information that is assumed to be true. Inductive and deductive reasoning are used in research to establish hypotheses.


Inductive reasoning is also known as induction and inductive logic.  Inductive reasoning is a kind of reasoning that constructs or evaluates inductive arguments. Inductive reasoning suggests the truth, but do not ensure it.

For example one could say that since all life forms we come across need water to exist, all life depends on liquid water to exist.

Deductive Reasoning is a type reasoning which constructs or evaluates deductive arguments. Deductive arguments try and show that a conclusion can be made from a set of premises or hypotheses. A deductive argument is valid if the conclusion does follow necessarily from the premise.  An example is all human beings drink water.  I am a human being.  Therefore, I drink water.  I used myself as an example, but any person or name could have been used there as an example of deductive reasoning.  

Both inductive and deductive reasoning are similar in the fact that they are means of obtaining information and gaining knowledge.  Not only are these good techniques to use for scientists or people in a job field that requires these types of reasoning, but they can be used in everyday life as well.  For example.  Every Freshman at Mercer lives in dorms.  I am a freshman.  Therefore I must live in a dorm.  Or, all students at Mercer are expected to be on time for classes.  I go to Mercer.  Therefore I am expected to be on time for class.  

It is important for people to be able to use these types of reasoning and gain knowledge in doing so.  I feel like the difference between the two isn't as important as simply knowing what they are and how to use each as a tool.