- LPU MCA Semester 1
- PEL546
- Unit 6
PEL546 · Unit 6: Vocabulary and reading comprehension
Reading comprehension: inference-based and fact-based questions
9 practice questions · in the ETE syllabus
Key points
- Fact-based answers are stated in the text
- Inferences are supported by clues but not stated
- Choose the conclusion that fits all the clues
- Reject options that go beyond the passage
Fact-based (literal) questions ask for information that the passage states directly: names, numbers, events and reasons. Find the exact words in the text and do not add anything. Inference-based questions ask for a conclusion that the evidence supports but does not state.
| Question type | Answer comes from | Typical wording |
|---|---|---|
| Fact-based | Words stated in the text | According to the passage... |
| Inference-based | Evidence plus reasoning | It can be inferred that... |
Example: When the lights went out, the children moved closer to their grandmother and stopped talking. Stated fact: the lights went out. Inference: the children were frightened.
Steps for inferences: read the whole passage, find the clues (actions, words, results), choose the conclusion that best fits all the clues, and reject options that contradict the text or go far beyond it.
Exam trap: a statement that sounds sensible but is not supported by the passage is not an inference. Check that each choice can be justified from the text.
Try two questions
Read: The shop was crowded and every shelf was empty by evening. Which can be inferred?
- The shop had no customers.
- The owner closed the shop in the morning.
- The goods were sold quickly.
- The shelves were never stocked.
Show the answer
C. An inference is a conclusion that the evidence supports even though it is not stated.
Why not A: The shop was crowded, so it had customers.
Why not B: The shop was open in the evening.
Why not D: The shelves were emptied by evening, so they had been stocked.
Read: When the lights went out, the children moved closer to their grandmother and stopped talking. Which can be inferred?
- The children were angry with their grandmother.
- The children were asleep.
- The grandmother left the room.
- The children were frightened.
Show the answer
D. Moving closer and falling silent in the dark suggests fear.
Why not A: Moving closer to her does not suggest anger.
Why not B: They stopped talking, but they moved closer, so they were awake.
Why not C: The grandmother is still with them.