Which reasoning technique starts with general statements and leads towards specifics?

Deductive reasoning is a logical process where one starts with general statements or premises and uses them to arrive at specific conclusions. This method operates on the principle that if the general statements are true, then the specific conclusions drawn from them must also be true.

For example, if we have the general premise that all mammals have a backbone and we know that a dog is a mammal, we can deduce that a dog has a backbone. This structured approach is fundamental to formal logic and scientific reasoning, as it allows for clear validation of conclusions based on agreed-upon premises.

This differentiates deductive reasoning from other forms of reasoning, such as inductive reasoning, which begins with specific observations and builds towards broader generalizations. Abductive reasoning focuses on finding the most likely explanation from incomplete observations, while critical thinking encompasses evaluating arguments and evidence rather than strictly following a logical progression from general to specific.