What is an inference?

• A. A conclusion drawn from context clues not directly stated
• B. A direct quote from the text
• C. A verbatim summary
• D. A personal opinion

Answer: (A)

Inference is reading between the lines: drawing a conclusion from clues the text provides, even when it isn’t stated directly. That’s why this choice fits best—it describes forming a conclusion based on context clues rather than exact wording. A direct quote repeats the author’s exact words, so it’s not an inference. A verbatim summary restates what the text says in a condensed form, which isn’t about drawing new conclusions from clues. A personal opinion is your own view, not something necessarily supported by what the text implies. When you infer, you’re using evidence from the text plus your thoughtful reasoning to make a reasonable guess about something the author leaves unsaid.