Deductive Reasoning Examples

Deductive reasoning is when you move from a general statement to a more specific statement through a logical thought process. Deductive reasoning is the foundation of the scientific method. In the scientific method, one starts with a general theory or belief, and then observes specific things in order to test the general theory or belief.

One of the most famous examples of deductive reasoning is from Aristotle:

All men or mortal. Socrates is a man. Therefore, Socrates is mortal.

Every time I take a test in math, I fail it. I am taking a math test today. I will fail my test today.

Jenna is in Mrs. Jones' class. Mrs. Jones' class is in the library. Jenna will be in the library.

All apples are fruits. The Granny Smith is a type of apple. The Granny Smith is a fruit.

All cows are mammals. Bessie is a cow. Bessie is a mammal.

All of the women in my family have college degrees. My Aunt Joan is visiting today. Aunt Joan has a college degree.