ACT Preparation / Unit 21 ACT 2007 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Inductive or Deductive?
The idea
A reasoning-type question is answered in three steps. First, find where the reasoning starts: with many particular observations, or with a general principle. Second, find where it ends: with a general conclusion, or with a specific prediction. Third, name it: particular to general is inductive; general to particular is deductive.
In practice
Worked example: an invented researcher surveys 60 ponds and finds frogs only in ponds with cattails, then concludes that the frogs in that region need cattails: particular to general, inductive. A second researcher reasons that if the frogs need cattails, then a new pond planted with cattails should attract them: general to particular, deductive. Watching the new pond then tests the deduction.
Where people slip
One study can use both, one after the other. Name the step the question points to.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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