Making Inferences
Reading Between the Lines
Learn how to figure out information a story hints at but does not say out loud.
What Is an Inference?
An inference is a smart guess you make using clues in the text plus what you already know. The text gives you hints, and your brain fills in the rest.
Inferring in Everyday Life
Why Inferences Matter
The Inference Rule
If you cannot point to evidence in the passage that backs up your answer, then it is a guess, not an inference.
Where Clues Hide
Stated vs. Implied
How to Make an Inference
Example 1: A Feeling
Question: How does Liam most likely feel?
Example 2: A Place
Question: Where is Sara?
Example 3: A Reason
Question: Why is Noah probably upset?
Strong vs. Weak Inferences
Common Mistakes
Quick Summary
| Good Inference | Bad Inference | |
|---|---|---|
| Uses text clues? | Yes, several | Few or none |
| Makes sense? | Yes | A wild guess |
| Can prove it? | Points to evidence | No evidence |
| Just repeats text? | No, adds meaning | Copies words |
Question 1 of 5
When the recess bell rang, Ben raced to the field, dropped his lunch box, and pulled his glove onto his hand. He kept watching the gate where his classmates were coming out.
What can you infer that Ben wants to do at recess?
Question 2 of 5
Mia's hands shook as she walked onto the stage. She stared at the crowd, took a deep breath, and finally squeaked out the first word of her speech.
How does Mia most likely feel?
Question 3 of 5
Grandpa zipped up his thick coat, wrapped a scarf around his neck, and grabbed a shovel before opening the front door.
What can you infer about the weather?
Question 4 of 5
Carlos looked at the empty cookie jar, then at the crumbs on his little sister's shirt. She smiled and said, "I didn't touch them!"
What can you infer happened?
Question 5 of 5
The whole team huddled together, jumping up and down. Coach Lee lifted the shiny trophy high in the air while everyone cheered.
What can you infer about the team?