Inference & Deduction

In the GL 11+ exam, some of the trickiest questions ask you to work out something that the writer has not said directly. This is called inference — and it is one of the most valuable skills you can develop.

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What Is Inference?

Inference means reading between the lines. The writer gives you clues, and you use those clues to work out what is really happening — or how someone is feeling — even though it is not spelled out.

Think of it like being a detective. The writer leaves clues, and your job is to piece them together.

Example: "Mia slammed her book on the desk and stared out of the window."

The writer does not say Mia is angry or frustrated — but we can infer it from her action of slamming the book.

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What Is Deduction?

Deduction is very similar to inference. It means using facts and evidence in the text to reach a logical conclusion.

Example: "Jack pulled his scarf tighter around his neck and watched his breath form clouds in the air."