Which reasoning method involves taking specific facts to form a general conclusion?

Inductive reasoning is the method that entails taking specific facts or observations and using them to reach a broader general conclusion. This reasoning process starts with particular instances and draws conclusions that, while they may not be absolutely certain, are often probable based on the evidence at hand. For example, if you observe that the sun has risen in the east every day of your life, you might conclude that the sun always rises in the east.

In contrast, deductive reasoning works the opposite way; it starts with a general statement or hypothesis and examines the possibilities to reach a specific, logically certain conclusion. Hasty generalizations refer to drawing a conclusion based on insufficient evidence or a small sample size, which is a flaw rather than a method of reasoning. A classification essay involves organizing ideas or items into categories but does not specifically address the reasoning method related to forming conclusions based on evidence.

Thus, inductive reasoning accurately captures the process of moving from specific instances to general conclusions, making it the correct choice.