Argumentation Techniques
Deductive Reasoning

Apply general principles to specific cases to reach certain conclusions.

Last updated Mar 15, 2026

What it is

A logical process that applies general principles, rules, or premises to specific situations to reach definitive conclusions. Unlike inductive reasoning, deductive reasoning moves from the general to the specific and, when premises are true, guarantees the conclusion's validity.

Before & after

Before

“We have a new policy that might apply to some situations, depending on circumstances.”

After

“All projects over $100K require board approval. This initiative costs $150K. Therefore, we need board approval before proceeding.”

When you’ll use it

Policy implementation: 'All departments must reduce costs by 10% (general rule). Marketing is a department (specific case). Therefore, Marketing must cut 10%'

Compliance decisions: 'All client data requires encryption (policy). This customer information is client data (case). Therefore, this must be encrypted'

Performance standards: 'Employees missing 3+ deadlines get performance reviews (rule). John missed 4 deadlines (fact). Therefore, John needs a review'