Inductive reasoning involves finding generalized results from observation of patterns, while
deductive reasoning originates from facts and extrapolates facts from existing facts. Generating
a hypothesis from inductive reasoning requires making educated guesses from trends in data or
posited theories. Stating a hypothesis from deductive reasoning requires a more in-depth
examination of existing facts and learning new information. For example, comparing mental
health policies in law enforcement agencies with the number of suicides in each department
can help reduce suicide rates.
For deductive reasoning, using knowledge of standardized field sobriety testing, such as the
Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, can help determine the probability of impaired individuals
displaying six clues of inebriation past the legal drinking limit. This allows officers to deduce that
there is a 77% chance of impaired individuals exhibiting six clues during the test.
References
Khan Academy. (2010).
Inductive & Deductive Reasoning (video)
. Khan Academy.
https://www.khanacademy.org/math/algebra-home/alg-series-and-induction/alg-deductive-
and-inductive-reasoning/v/deductive-reasoning-1
NHTSA. (2015).
DWI detection and standardized field sobriety testing (SFST) refresher:
Participant guide
. November 12, 2023, chrome-
extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/
2023-03/15911-SFST_Participant_Manual_2023-tag.pdf
