In legal reasoning, the facts of a case suggest that there is an issue. this issue may already be governed by a rule of law. when the facts are compared to the rule, an analysis of the case can be developed. from this analysis, a _[blank]_ can be made as to whether or not the _[blank]_ applies to the _[blank]_.
which three words, in order, best complete the statement?

a-conclusion; rule; facts
b-conclusion; issue; rule
c-rule; conclusion; issue