Research 101

FROM INFORMATION'S EVIDENCE

How to Infer

Observations occur when we can see something happening or read. In contrast, inferences are what you can deduce based on a past experience or previous knowledge. This makes the text or piece of information personal and memorable.

Making an inference - also known as drawing conclusions - from what you have read involves using what you already know to make a guess about what you don't yet know. In other words, you are reading between the lines to understand a concept that may not be explicitly stated. 

Not all school assignments will ask you to perform this, but it is a useful skill in navigating through a sea of information.

Five Steps to Making an Inference