Final answer:
The inductive method is used when direct contact is not possible or desirable. It involves creating a charge in a nearby object without direct contact.
Step-by-step explanation:
The inductive method is used instead of the conductive method in situations where direct contact is not possible or desirable. Inductive charging, also known as charging by induction, involves creating a charge in a nearby object without direct contact. It is often used in applications such as wireless charging. On the other hand, the conductive method involves direct transfer of charge through a conducting path, such as using a wire. This is due to the more readily accessible and observable nature of the effects of the induced electric field, as well as the ease of creating such demonstrations with everyday materials.