In this context, how do deductive and inductive reasoning differ?

• A. Deduction uses given rules to reach conclusions; induction infers generalizations from examples.
• B. They are identical in approach.
• C. Deduction infers generalizations; induction uses given rules.
• D. Induction guarantees correct conclusions; deduction does not.

Answer: (A)

Deductive reasoning starts with a general rule or principle and applies it to a specific case to draw conclusions that must be true if the rule is true. Inductive reasoning, by contrast, begins with specific observations or examples and builds a general statement or hypothesis that explains them. This distinction is exactly what the option captures: deduction uses given rules to reach conclusions, while induction infers generalizations from examples.

The other ideas don’t fit because they mix up the directions and guarantees of the two processes. Saying they’re identical ignores the different directions of reasoning and the certainty involved. Reversing the roles—deduction infers generalizations, induction uses rules—confuses which method derives rules versus which tests them. Claiming induction guarantees correct conclusions ignores that inductive generalizations are probabilistic, not certain, while deductive conclusions are logically guaranteed when premises are true.