CCTST Deductive and Inductive 2

Question 1

A researcher observes that every swan she has ever seen is white and concludes 'All swans are white.' What type of reasoning is this?

Accepted Answer

Inductive reasoning

Answer

This is inductive reasoning because the conclusion generalizes beyond the observed cases to all swans.

Question 2

Which of the following is a valid deductive argument form?

Accepted Answer

If P then Q; P is true; therefore Q is true

Answer

Modus ponens (If P then Q; P is true; therefore Q is true) is a valid deductive argument form that guarantees the conclusion.

Question 3

A detective reasons: 'The crime occurred between 8 and 10 PM. Mr. Smith has a verified alibi for that entire period. Therefore, Mr. Smith did not commit the crime.' This is:

Accepted Answer

Valid deductive reasoning from established premises

Answer

Given the premises are true, the conclusion follows necessarily — this is valid deductive reasoning.

Question 4

Which feature BEST distinguishes a strong inductive argument from a weak one?

Accepted Answer

The evidence makes the conclusion highly probable

Answer

A strong inductive argument provides evidence that makes the conclusion highly probable, not certain.

Question 5

Consider: 'No mammals are cold-blooded. All dolphins are mammals. Therefore, no dolphins are cold-blooded.' This argument is:

Accepted Answer

Valid and sound if premises are true

Answer

The argument is valid (conclusion follows necessarily from premises) and sound (both premises are true).

(CCTST) California Critical Thinking Skills Test Practice Test

(CCTST) California Critical Thinking Skills Test Practice Test

CCTST Deductive and Inductive 2