Abductive reasoning (also called abduction, [1] abductive inference, [1] or retroduction [2]) is a form of logical inference that seeks the simplest and most likely conclusion from a set of observations.

Abductive reasoning, or abduction, is making a probable conclusion from what you know. If you see an abandoned bowl of hot soup on the table, you can use abduction to conclude the owner of the soup is likely returning soon.

Mar 25, 2024 · Unlike deductive and inductive reasoning, abductive reasoning focuses on forming hypotheses that explain observed phenomena. This article delves into the definition, types, and examples of abductive reasoning, shedding light on its role in making plausible inferences and guiding decision-making processes.

Mar 9, 2011 · Abduction is also said to be the predominant mode of reasoning in medical diagnosis: physicians tend to go for the hypothesis that best explains the patient’s symptoms (see Josephson and Josephson (eds.) 1994, 9–12; see also Dragulinescu 2016 on abductive reasoning in the context of medicine).

Aug 31, 2023 · Abductive reasoning, also known as “inference to the best explanation” is a form of logical reasoning that looks to the most likely hypothesis to explain something. While you may not be aware of it, people use abductive reasoning all the time to make educated guesses or form hypotheses on why a certain thing or event took place.

Abductive reasoning, also referred to as abductive approach is set to address weaknesses associated with deductive and inductive approaches. Specifically, deductive reasoning is criticized for the lack of clarity in terms of how to select theory to be tested via formulating hypotheses.

Unlike other forms of reasoning that start with a theory or observation that cannot be explained by any existing theory, abductive reasoning begins with an unexpected fact or occurrence and works backward-and-forward to find the most plausible theory.

• Introduction to Abductive Reasoning • Explanation & Diagnosis • Computing Explanations • Reading Material

May 29, 2023 · Abductive arguments focus on finding the best or most plausible explanation for a given observation or phenomenon. They involve reasoning from evidence to a hypothesis or explanation that provides the most likely account of the observed facts.

For most scientists, abductive reasoning is a natural and instinctive process, a series of educated guesses, building upon observed phenomena and previous studies. Even young scientists use this process to design simple school experiments .