Logical reasoning

The three methods for logical reasoning, deduction, induction and abduction can be explained in the following way:

Given preconditions &alpha;, postconditions &beta; and the rule R1: &alpha; &there4; &beta; (&alpha; therefore &beta;).


 * Deduction means determining &beta;. It is using the rule and its preconditions to make a conclusion


 * Induction means determining R1. It is learning R1 after numerous examples of &beta; and &alpha;.


 * Abduction means determining &alpha;. It is using the postcondition and the rule to assume that the precondition could explain the postcondition (&beta; &and; R1 &rArr; &alpha;).