An inference is a conclusion the author implies but never states outright. The trick: the correct inference is the smallest logical step the text forces you to take — not the most interesting one.
The one-step rule
A valid inference must be something that is almost certainly true given the passage. If you need an extra assumption from outside the text, you have stepped too far.
| Distance from the text | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Restates a fact already given | ❌ that is a detail, not an inference |
| One small step the text guarantees | ✅ the answer |
| A plausible guess needing outside info | ❌ too far |
| Contradicts the passage | ❌ wrong |
Spot the question type
These stems signal an inference question:
- "The passage suggests / implies that..."
- "It can be inferred that..."
- "The author would most likely agree that..."
How to test a choice
For each option, ask: "Does the passage give me evidence that forces this?" If you can quietly add "...because the passage says ___", it is supported. If you have to say "...probably, in real life", it is too far.
Anchor, then step. Find the sentence that supports the choice, then take exactly one logical step — no more.
Beware the extreme word
Inference traps hide in absolutes: always, never, all, none, only, must. Passages rarely justify such strong claims, so a choice with an extreme word is usually too far.