Final answer:
The skill of C. Auguste Dupin associated with 'deduction' refers to his use of deductive reasoning to solve mysteries, by focusing on specific evidence and individual characteristics rather than general principles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The skill of C. Auguste Dupin that the student asked about refers to deductive reasoning, a logical process where a conclusion is based on the concordance of multiple premises that are generally assumed to be true. Deductive reasoning is at the core of Dupin's method of solving mysteries, as introduced by Edgar Allan Poe. This character closely examines a situation and uses available clues to make deductions that lead to the solution of a mystery.
For instance, Dupin's approach contrasts with the police methodology, as he observes and interprets evidence differently. Instead of applying general search principles, he assesses the individual qualities of the person who concealed an item and adjusts his search techniques accordingly. By focusing on the specific instead of the general, Dupin's deductive methods prove more effective than the conventional methods used by the police.