Reading Comprehension • Topic 2 of 4

Inference & Tone

Inference questions ask what the passage implies but doesn't state — the answer must be strongly supported, a small logical step. Tone questions ask the author's attitude (critical, appreciative, neutral, sarcastic), judged from word choices.

Inference = a small supported step

A valid inference is implied by the text and only a short logical step away — never a wild guess or your own view. If you can't point to the lines that support it, reject it.

Common tone words

ToneSignals
Neutral / objectivebalanced, fact-only
Appreciativepraising word choices
Criticalfault-finding language
Sarcastic / ironicmocking, says opposite of literal
Optimistic / pessimistichopeful vs gloomy
Avoid extreme tone options unless the passage is clearly that strong. A measured passage is "critical", not "furious"; pick the tone the wording actually supports.

✅ Solved examples

1. A valid inference must be ___ by the passage.
Strongly supported (a small logical step, not a guess).
2. How do you judge the author's tone?
From the writer's word choices and attitude.
3. Why avoid extreme tone options?
They overstate unless the passage is clearly that strong.
4. Is an inference directly stated in the text?
No — it is implied but well-supported.

✏️ Practice — try these, take hints as needed

1. An inference is implied, not directly ___.
Said.
—
—
stated
2. A mocking, cutting tone is called?
Cutting humour.
—
—
sarcastic
3. A balanced, fact-only tone is?
No bias.
—
—
neutral / objective
4. A tone praising the subject is?
Positive.
—
—
appreciative
5. An inference must be ___ by the text.
Backed.
—
—
supported

📝 Topic test — 8 questions

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