Deductive reasoning is a logical process where conclusions are drawn from general principles or premises. It starts with a broad statement or hypothesis and examines the possibilities to reach a specific, logical conclusion. For example, if we know that all humans are mortal and that Socrates is a human, we can deduce that Socrates is mortal. This method is often used in mathematics and science, where established theories or laws lead to specific predictions. Deductive reasoning is essential for constructing valid arguments and is a fundamental aspect of critical thinking, helping to ensure that conclusions are logically sound based on the given information.