OACP Deductive and Inductive Reasoning 3

Question 1

During the OACP test, a passage states: 'Experienced officers always file complete reports. Constable Rivera is experienced.' What must be true?

Accepted Answer

Constable Rivera files complete reports

Answer

The universal premise combined with the specific premise deductively guarantees the conclusion.

Question 2

Which of the following best illustrates affirming the consequent — an invalid deductive form?

Accepted Answer

If it is arson, there will be accelerant. There is accelerant. Therefore it is arson.

Answer

Affirming the consequent is invalid because other causes could explain the presence of accelerant.

Question 3

A criminologist reviews records and notes that 85% of repeat offenders in a district were previously convicted of theft. She infers that theft history is a risk factor for reoffending. This reasoning is:

Accepted Answer

Inductive and probabilistic

Answer

Statistical patterns drawn from records form an inductive, probabilistic inference rather than a certain deductive conclusion.

Question 4

An officer's logic: 'Either the witness is lying or mistaken. The witness is not lying. Therefore the witness is mistaken.' This argument uses:

Accepted Answer

Disjunctive syllogism

Answer

Disjunctive syllogism eliminates one option from an either/or premise to confirm the other.

Question 5

In OACP reading comprehension, you encounter: 'Most community policing initiatives reduce fear of crime. Initiative X is a community policing initiative.' The BEST conclusion is:

Accepted Answer

Initiative X will probably reduce fear of crime

Answer

'Most' signals an inductive premise, so the conclusion is probable rather than certain.

OACP - Ontario Association of Chief of Police Practice Test

OACP - Ontario Association of Chief of Police Practice Test

OACP Deductive and Inductive Reasoning 3