What type of argument is constructed when the premises lead to a certain conclusion?

Study for the Western Governors University (WGU) PHIL1020 D265 Critical Thinking: Reason and Evidence Exam. Engage with multiple-choice questions, gain insights, and prepare for success!

When premises lead to a certain conclusion, it indicates a structure of reasoning that can be classified as valid. In a valid argument, if the premises are true, the conclusion must necessarily follow. This means that there is a formal relationship where the truth of the premises guarantees the truth of the conclusion. Valid arguments are essential in deductive reasoning, where the intent is to arrive at a conclusion that is logically consistent and follows necessarily from the provided information.

In contrast, while inductive arguments do involve premises that suggest a conclusion, they do not ensure certainty; rather, they offer probable support. Abductive arguments involve forming a conclusion based on the best explanation for the available evidence, which can also imply a level of uncertainty. Invalid argument structures, even if they have premises, do not guarantee that the conclusion follows logically, thus lacking the necessary certainty that defines a valid argument structure. Each of these other forms of reasoning contrasts with the certain conclusion indicative of a valid argument.

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