Chapter 1
Foundational Reading Comprehension Strategies
Course: Gre
Subject: Gre Verbal Reasoning
Chapter: Foundational Reading Comprehension Strategies
Introduction: Reading Between the Lines
Sometimes, the most important information in a text is not written directly on the page. Authors often rely on readers to "fill in the gaps" using context clues and their own knowledge. This process of reading between the lines is called drawing inferences.
The ability to make inferences is a cornerstone of critical reading, especially when dealing with informational texts. It allows you to uncover the author's underlying assumptions, identify potential biases, and fully grasp the implications of the information presented. This lesson will teach you what an inference is, why it's important, and a three-step process for drawing them effectively.
What Is an Inference?
An inference is a conclusion or a piece of information that is not directly stated but can be understood by combining clues in the text with your own prior knowledge and experience. It's the act of "reading between the lines."