What is meant by making an inference?

• A. A conclusion drawn from explicit statements
• B. A conclusion drawn from evidence and reasoning
• C. A guess made without any evidence
• D. A statement that cannot be proven

Answer: (B)

Making an inference involves arriving at a conclusion based on available evidence and reasoning rather than relying solely on explicit statements or direct information. When a reader encounters a text, they often gather clues from the details provided, including character actions, dialogue, or descriptive elements, which help to form an understanding that goes beyond the obvious.

For instance, if a character in a story is described as shivering and wearing a light jacket in winter, one might infer that it is cold outside, even though that particular detail is not stated outright. This process of using evidence to draw connections and make logical deductions is essential to interpretation and deeper comprehension in reading and critical thinking.

In contrast, options that suggest conclusions drawn without evidence or those that cannot be proven do not align with the definition of inference, as inferences are rooted in reasoning and situational context.