Deductive argument

A term used to describe a storyline that is structured by using deductive logic at the top level, immediately following the answer, or governing idea.

A deductive argument begins with a major premise, or statement, followed by a minor premise, or comment on the statement, which then leads to an unavoidable conclusion or recommendation. These come in many forms, which are based in logic.

Here's an example of a commonly used form, called a syllogism:

• Success requires X
• You are not equipped to do X
• Therefore, build capability in X

Here is another example, from Sherlock Holmes: