What type of reasoning moves from specific to general?

Inductive reasoning involves deriving general principles from specific observations or cases. This type of reasoning allows for the formation of broader conclusions based on particular instances. For example, if you observe that a specific type of bird can fly, and you notice several other birds of the same type also being able to fly, you might induce that all birds of that type possess the capability of flight.

By using specific examples, inductive reasoning helps build hypotheses or theories that can apply to a wider range of situations. This method is particularly valuable in the contexts of scientific research and everyday decision-making, where conclusions are drawn based on patterns rather than absolute certainties.

In contrast, deductive reasoning starts with general premises to arrive at a specific conclusion, causal reasoning identifies relationships between events as cause and effect, and abductive reasoning focuses on inferring the most likely explanation for observations. Each of these reasoning types serves different purposes and operates under different principles than inductive reasoning.