Logical reasoning

The three methods for logical reasoning, deduction, induction, and abduction can be explained in the following way (taken from [1]):


 * Given &alpha;, &beta;, and the rule R1 : &alpha; &there4; &beta;


 * Deduction is using the rule and its preconditions to make a conclusion (&alpha; &and; R1 &rArr; &beta;).


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


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