Which reasoning process starts with a broad generalization and applies it to specific cases?

• A. Open-ended Question
• B. Deductive Reasoning
• C. Inductive Reasoning
• D. Chronological Format

Answer: (B)

Applying a general rule to specific cases is deductive reasoning. In this approach you start with a broad principle or generalization and derive conclusions about particular instances that must follow if the rule is true. For example, starting with a general statement like “All mammals have backbones” and then examining a specific creature, such as a whale, to conclude that it has a backbone, shows deduction in action. Inductive reasoning works the other way—starting with specific observations and forming a general rule from them. Open-ended questions and chronological formats describe different things (a type of question, or a way of organizing information), not a reasoning process.