FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which method of reasoning involves working from general statements to specific conclusions?

1. Inductive reasoning

2. Divergent questioning

3. Deductive reasoning

4. Critical thinking

The correct answer is: Deductive reasoning

The method of reasoning that involves working from general statements to specific conclusions is deductive reasoning. In this approach, broad principles or theories are applied to specific situations or cases to derive conclusions. For example, if we start with a general statement such as "All humans are mortal" and apply it to a specific instance like "Socrates is a human," we can conclude that "Socrates is mortal." This logical process follows a structured framework where the truth of the general premise guarantees the truth of the specific conclusion, assuming the premises are accurate. On the other hand, inductive reasoning works in the opposite direction, starting with specific observations to form broader generalizations. Divergent questioning focuses on generating multiple ideas or answers, promoting creativity and exploration, rather than drawing conclusions from general statements. Critical thinking encompasses a range of skills including analysis and evaluation, which are not strictly about progressing from general to specific reasoning. Thus, deductive reasoning is the clear methodology characterized by moving from generalities to specific conclusions.