Which reasoning method starts with general statements and moves to specific conclusions?

The reasoning method that begins with general statements and proceeds to specific conclusions is deductive reasoning. This method operates on the principle that if the general statements or premises are true, then the conclusion derived from them must also be true. For example, if we know that all humans are mortal (a general statement) and Socrates is a human (a specific case), we can deduce that Socrates is mortal (a specific conclusion).

This contrasts with other reasoning methods, such as inductive reasoning, which starts with specific observations and builds up to general conclusions, and cannot guarantee the truth of the conclusion. Syllogism is a form of deductive reasoning involving a structured format, but it is not a distinct reasoning method per se; it is rather an application of deductive reasoning. Analogical reasoning involves drawing comparisons based on similarities, which is a different process altogether.