ACROSS FAMILIES/ Reasoning approach
Deductive reasoning
Derive implications from premises
Deduction derives conclusions that follow logically from stated premises. In empirical research, theories and auxiliary assumptions generate hypotheses or analytic expectations that evidence can examine. Deductive coding applies an existing conceptual framework to material. A failed prediction can challenge a theory, measurement or auxiliary assumption, so practical hypothesis testing is more complex than formal logic alone.
WHEN IT FITS
Use when a sufficiently specified theory or framework yields clear expectations and you can identify evidence that would support, qualify or challenge those expectations.
Strengths
- Makes expectations and theoretical commitments explicit
- Supports targeted comparisons and planned hypothesis tests
Limitations
- Poor operationalisation can make tests uninformative
- Rigid categories can conceal unanticipated evidence
Know the boundary
Deduction is not restricted to numerical data, and a supported prediction does not logically prove its theory.
USED ACROSS
Banking & financeBusiness & MBAPsychologyComputer scienceEducation