What is the difference between inductive and deducting methods of research?

Inductive and deductive methods are two contrasting approaches in research:

Inductive Method:
Inductive reasoning involves moving from specific observations to broader generalizations. Researchers using the inductive method start with specific instances or examples and then derive overarching principles or theories based on patterns observed in the data. This approach is exploratory and is often associated with qualitative research, allowing for the emergence of new insights and theories from the ground up.

Deductive Method:
Deductive reasoning, on the other hand, starts with general principles or theories and moves towards specific observations or predictions. Researchers using the deductive method begin with a theoretical framework and test specific hypotheses derived from that framework through empirical observation or experimentation. This approach is commonly associated with quantitative research and aims to confirm or disconfirm existing theories through systematic investigation.

In essence, the key distinction lies in the direction of reasoning: inductive reasoning moves from specific observations to general patterns, while deductive reasoning moves from general principles to specific predictions or observations.