Hyperproof

Hyperproof is a system for learning the principles of analytical reasoning and proof construction, consisting of a text and a Macintosh software program. Unlike traditional treatments of first-order logic, Hyperproof combines graphical and sentential information, presenting a set of logical rules for integrating these different forms of information. This strategy allows students to focus on the information content of proofs rather than the syntactic structure of sentences. It also reflects the heterogeneity of information encountered in everyday reasoning.

Using Hyperproof the student learns to construct proofs of both consequence and non-consequence using an intuitive proof system that extends the standard set of sentential rules to incorporate information represented graphically. Proofs of consistency and inconsistency are also covered as well as independence proofs. The Hyperproof software checks the logical validity of each type of proof.

Hyperproof is compatible with various natural-deduction-style proof systems, including the system used in the authors' The Language of First-order Logic.

Hyperproof is designed to be used in a first course in logic. Since it presupposes familiarity with the program Tarski's World , it should be used in tandem with either the textbook The Language of First-order Logic or the stand-alone version of Tarski's World ( Tarski "Lite"). Hyperproof is currently available only for the Macintosh.