N.1 Learn how to make inferences from the text
What is inference?
Inference is the skill of figuring out something the author does not say directly. Readers use clues from the text and their own knowledge to understand what is happening or what is meant.
- Text: “Anna grabbed her umbrella and ran out the door.”
Inference: It is probably raining outside. - Text: “Marcus’s stomach growled as he looked at the clock.”
Inference: Marcus is hungry and waiting for mealtime.
An inference is like being a detective—using hints and clues to understand more than what is written.
How do readers make inferences?
Readers make inferences by combining text evidence with what they already know. Evidence comes from words, pictures, and details in the story.
- Look for clues in the text.
- Think about what you already know from experience.
- Put the two together to understand what the author means.
Ask yourself: “What do the clues tell me?” and “What do I already know that helps me understand this?”
Clues that help with inference
Clues can come from words, actions, or pictures. Authors often give hints instead of telling everything directly.
- Character actions: A child yawns and rubs their eyes → The child is tired.
- Character feelings: A boy hides behind his mother → He might be shy or afraid.
- Setting details: Leaves falling from trees → It is probably autumn.
Always pay attention to details. Even small actions or words can be big clues to help you infer.
Why is inference important?
Inference helps readers better understand stories, poems, and informational texts. It allows readers to figure out characters’ feelings, settings, and ideas that are not said directly.
- Text: “Samantha hid her report card under the bed.”
Inference: She might not want her parents to see it. - Text: “The dog wagged its tail and barked at the door.”
Inference: Someone familiar is arriving.
Making inferences makes reading more interesting and helps you understand the deeper meaning of the text.
Practicing inference in your reading
To become better at inference, practice asking and answering questions as you read. Look for evidence, use your own knowledge, and connect the two.
- What clue did I find in the text?
- What do I already know that connects to this clue?
- What can I figure out that the author did not say directly?
The more you practice inference, the easier it will be to understand both stories and real-life situations.