Why must a proof that multiples of 6 are even pick an arbitrary element instead of checking 12, 18 and 24?
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The choose-an-element method
State when it is used (a universal quantifier such as in the backward process) and record its rule: name an arbitrary element and assume only its defining property.
Proof that for multiples of 6 and evens
Write and in set builder notation, then write the full proof from "Let " through with to the conclusion .
Proper subset in two steps: subset, then not equal
Record that means and , show with the element , , and redo both steps for multiples of 9 and multiples of 3.
Venn diagrams as conjectures, not proofs
Draw and shade the diagrams suggesting gives and , and note that each relationship still needs a proof.