Concept 2

Draw reasonable inferences supported by textual evidence.

Build an inference from concrete clues, not from guesswork.

Core Idea

A strong inference is one small step beyond the text. If you cannot point to the clues that support it, the answer goes too far.

Understanding

Inference questions still live in the passage. Combine two or three concrete details, then choose the answer that stays closest to them.

Use this clue chain:

  1. Identify the details the passage or figure actually gives.
  2. Ask what those details support together.
  3. Reject choices that sound plausible in real life but are not licensed by the text.

Plausible is not enough. Supported wins.

Step by Step

  1. Identify the details the passage or figure actually gives.
  2. Ask what those details support together.
  3. Reject choices that go beyond the evidence.
Question

Worked Example

A natural science passage describes an experiment comparing bean seedlings grown in full sun and partial shade for three weeks. A figure reports these average heights: Week 1, full sun 6 cm and partial shade 9 cm; Week 3, full sun 17 cm and partial shade 18 cm. Which choice is the most reasonable inference from the passage and figure?

Select an answer to see the explanation