The core purpose of PTE is to make abstract reasoning concepts tangible. Instead of merely defining terms like modus ponens or modus tollens, PTE provides concrete situations where these logical structures can be observed and applied. For instance, an example might present a set of premises, such as "All birds have feathers" and "A robin is a bird," and then ask the learner to deduce the conclusion: "Therefore, a robin has feathers." This simple structure clearly illustrates deductive reasoning.
Beyond deduction, PTE examples can also showcase inductive reasoning, where conclusions are drawn from specific observations to form general principles, or abductive reasoning, which involves finding the most likely explanation for a set of observations. The examples are carefully constructed to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each reasoning method, encouraging learners to understand when and how to use them effectively. PTE serves as a practical tool for developing analytical skills and fostering a deeper understanding of how knowledge is constructed and justified.