Making Inferences

What is an Inference?

An inference is a logical conclusion you draw by combining what the text says with what you already know.

Think of it as: Text evidence + Background knowledge = Inference

Example: The passage says "Maria rushed inside, shaking water from her umbrella." You can infer it was raining — the text doesn't say so directly, but the evidence points there.

Types of Inference Questions

• "It can be inferred from the passage that…"
• "The author implies that…"
• "Based on the passage, the reader can conclude…"
• "Most likely, the character feels… because…"

Strategy

• Find the relevant sentence(s) in the passage.
• Ask: what does the author suggest without directly saying?
• The correct answer must be supported by evidence — if you can't point to text supporting it, it's probably wrong.
• Avoid answers that go too far beyond the text (speculation) or contradict it.