* Deductive reasoning: This method starts with a general theory or hypothesis and then uses logic to predict specific observations.
* Example: If all birds have feathers, and a robin is a bird, then a robin has feathers.
* Inductive reasoning: This method starts with specific observations and then uses logic to infer a general theory or hypothesis.
* Example: You observe that all swans you've ever seen are white. You infer that all swans must be white.
While there are many variations and nuances, these two fundamental approaches form the basis of scientific inquiry.
