An inference is an interpretation or an explanation of an observation. The observation is made using our senses. To make an inference, we connect what we observe to prior knowledge and the new information observed through our senses. An inference can be made from more than one observation, and it is not just a guess.

Inferring means figuring out something that the author doesn’t actually say. You can use clues that are in the text, and things from your own mind. Sometimes it’s called “reading between the lines,” and it adds a lot more meaning to the story.

As a reading strategy, inferring requires readers to use prior knowledge and the information stated in a text to draw conclusions. While inferring can be difficult for students, it is often necessary to understand the full meaning of a text.

Inferring about scientific data also leads to predicting. Scientists use current observations about events to help forecast or make generalizations about future events. These predictions usually follow after numerous testing situations and observations based on these situations.

Examples of Inference: A character has a diaper in her hand, spit-up on her shirt, and a bottle warming on the counter. You can infer that this character is a mother. A character has a briefcase, is taking a ride on an airplane, and is late for a meeting.

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2. Put the argument in standard form.
3. Decide if the argument is deductive or non-deductive.
4. Determine whether the argument succeeds logically.
5. If the argument succeeds logically, assess whether the premises are true.

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