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Inductive Reasoning

"Inductive" reasoning derives from a Latin word meaning "lead into." Induction is the process of making a number of specific observations which lead to a general conclusion.

For example:

CONCLUSION: Eating apples makes me sick.

The Inductive Theme Pattern

The inductive theme generally begins with an introductory paragraph that leads up to a question, the answer to which is withheld until the paper's conclusion.  That conclusion is the paper's main idea or thesis statement.  The pattern looks something like this:

Using the inductive pattern of organization, the following outline might be constructed as the basis for a multi-paragraph paper that leads to a thesis statement at the paper's conclusion.

Question: Should the state legislature pass a law making deposits on all beer and soft drink containers?

Supporting paragraph 1: Beer and soda containers constitute a substantial portion of the unsightly and dangerous litter along our roadways.

Supporting paragraph 2: The experience of other states shows that deposits on beverage containers encourage consumers to return them for recycling, thus substantially reducing litter.

Supporting paragraph 3: The small additional cost to the consumer is more than justified by the enormous environmental benefits of such legislation.

Conclusion {thesis): The state legislature should enact a law requiring consumers to pay a deposit on all beer and soda containers.

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