Which term describes finding answers from clues and from prior knowledge rather than directly from the text or speech?

• A. Inference
• B. Deduction
• C. Generalization
• D. Analysis

Answer: (A)

Making a conclusion from clues and what you already know, rather than what is stated outright, is called inference. This skill involves reading between the lines by using evidence from the text or speech plus your prior knowledge to figure out ideas that aren’t directly stated. For example, if a character sighs, rubs their eyes, and speaks in a weary tone, you might infer they are tired or upset—even if the author doesn’t say it outright.

Deduction, on the other hand, starts with a general rule and applies it to a specific case to reach a conclusion, which is a different kind of reasoning. Generalization involves forming a broad claim based on patterns or examples, not necessarily filling in gaps from clues. Analysis is about breaking information into parts to understand how it works, rather than drawing new conclusions from clues and prior knowledge.