Stage 37 · Beyond (Optional)

37.4.4 Proof by Contradiction

37.4 Mathematical Proof and Logic: Induction, Contradiction, and Construction

Point 4 of 5

37.4.4 Proof by Contradiction

Core idea

Assume the conclusion is false, push until you hit a contradiction, and that forces the original to be true, like proving √2 is irrational.

Module goal. Make the why behind a result clear, master the language of mathematical statements and the three main styles of proof, and move from being able to compute to being able to prove.
eastmath.com · 37.4 Mathematical Proof and Logic: Induction, Contradiction, and Construction · 37.4.4 Proof by Contradiction