Can someone explain to me in simple terms deductive and inductive reasoning. Every time I find a new definition, I get more confused. I think that deductive is when you try to figure out from something that is generic and inductive is when you already know what will happen. Am I even close?

Using deductive reasoning, you work from the general to the specific. Inductive reasoning is the opposite -- you work from the specific to the general. This site has an excellent explanation.

http://www.socialresearchmethods.net/kb/dedind.php

You're on the right track, but let's clarify the concepts of deductive and inductive reasoning.

Deductive reasoning is a logical process in which conclusions are drawn based on a set of given premises or statements. It is commonly referred to as "top-down" reasoning. In deductive reasoning, if the premises are true, then the conclusion must be true. It involves generalizing from specific instances to form a universal principle. Deductive reasoning allows for certainty, as the conclusion follows logically from the premises.

For example, consider the following deductive argument:
Premise 1: All humans are mortal.
Premise 2: John is a human.
Conclusion: Therefore, John is mortal.

In this example, the conclusion follows logically from the given premises, and there is no room for ambiguity or uncertainty.

On the other hand, inductive reasoning is a process in which conclusions are made based on observations or evidence. It is commonly referred to as "bottom-up" reasoning. Inductive reasoning involves reaching a probable or likely conclusion, rather than an absolute one. It is used to make predictions or generalizations based on past experiences or patterns.

For example, consider the following inductive argument:
Premise: Every cat I have seen so far has fur.
Conclusion: Therefore, all cats have fur.

In this example, the conclusion is drawn based on observations of several cats with fur. However, it is important to note that inductive reasoning does not guarantee the accuracy of the conclusion. There is always a possibility of encountering a cat without fur in the future, which would invalidate the generalization.

To summarize, deductive reasoning starts with general premises and reaches a specific conclusion, while inductive reasoning starts with specific observations and reaches a generalized conclusion. Deductive reasoning offers certainty, while inductive reasoning offers probability or likelihood.