Formal logic is the use of symbols to structure how we make inferences such that the structure can be applied beyond specific cases. The structure of clinical trials and the values equation (value = outcomes/cost) lend themselves to evaluation using formal logic. Doing this demonstrates the unique position of randomized clinical trials as a defensible format for gathering information and identifies the shortcomings of historical controls and meta-analyses and retrospective studies using large databases. A practical example using literature on maintenance therapy in metastatic colorectal cancer is assessed. It is important to emphasize that value will be relative to a viewpoint, with many interested parties having competing values. This underscores the place of physicians and professional societies as putting patient values first.