Indirect proof, also known as proof by contradiction, is a method used in mathematics and logic to establish the truth of a statement. In this approach, one assumes that the statement is false and then derives a contradiction from that assumption. If a contradiction arises, it indicates that the original statement must be true. This technique is often employed in various fields, including geometry and number theory. By demonstrating that the opposite of a statement leads to an impossible situation, indirect proof effectively confirms the validity of the original claim without needing to prove it directly.