Reading Between the Lines

Sometimes, the answer isn’t stated directly. You have to use clues from the passage and your own reasoning to figure out what’s really going on—this is called making an inference.

How to Infer

• Combine what the passage says with what you already know.
• Look for hints in word choice or character actions.
• Don’t jump to conclusions! Make sure your answer fits the information given.

Drawing Conclusions

Conclusions are logical decisions you reach after considering all the information. They go one step beyond inferences by summarizing what the passage is telling you as a whole.

Why It’s Useful

In real life, you infer meaning all the time—like when you guess a friend’s mood by their tone of voice.

Quick Practice

• Ask, “What can I guess about this character that isn’t directly mentioned?”
• “What idea is the author hinting at?”