Which of the following describes an inference?
a. a definition of an important term in a text
b. information directly provided in a text
c. evidence from the text that supports a conclusion
d. a guess made about what a text is saying
c. evidence from the text that supports a conclusion
An inference is a conclusion or interpretation that is based on evidence and reasoning rather than being explicitly stated in the text. To find the correct answer, we need to understand what an inference is and then identify the option that aligns with that definition.
Option a ("a definition of an important term in a text") is not the correct answer because it refers to a specific type of information provided in the text, rather than a conclusion drawn from it. This is more likely to be referred to as a definition or explanation rather than an inference.
Option b ("information directly provided in a text") also does not describe an inference. This option refers to information that is explicitly stated in the text, rather than something that is deduced or inferred.
Option c ("evidence from the text that supports a conclusion") is the correct answer. This option aligns with the definition of an inference because it involves using information from the text to draw a conclusion or make an educated guess.
Option d ("a guess made about what a text is saying") is not the best choice because it uses the word "guess," which implies less evidence-based reasoning. While an inference can involve making a guess or hypothesis, it is typically done based on evidence and logical reasoning rather than mere speculation.
So, the correct answer is c, as it accurately describes an inference as evidence from the text that supports a conclusion.