Inference questions on the Digital SAT (DSAT) are among the most challenging types of questions you’ll encounter in the Reading and Writing section. These questions require you to go beyond what is explicitly stated in the text and draw logical conclusions based on the given information. To help you ace these questions, we’ve created this comprehensive guide filled with strategies, tips, and practice ideas to improve your SAT reading score and master Digital SAT inference questions.
What Are Inference Questions?
Inference questions ask you to deduce information that is not directly stated in the passage. Instead of looking for facts, you’re tasked with interpreting context, understanding implications, or predicting outcomes based on the text. These questions are easily recognizable because the question text is always the same:
- “Which choice most logically completes the text?”
Once you have identified that the question is an inference question, be prepared to read the text closely.
Why Are Inference Questions Important?
Inference questions test your critical thinking and reading comprehension skills, essential for improving your SAT reading score. They measure how well you can:
- Connect ideas within a passage.
- Understand subtle nuances in the text.
- Make logical assumptions based on evidence.
Strategies for Tackling Inference Questions
1. Read the Question
For inference questions, the question is always the same. We are looking for a logical conclusion to the text.
Example:
2. Identify the Relevant Text
Inference questions always ask you to complete the concluding sentence of the passage. Use the first sentence of the passage to identify the main topic. The concluding sentence will always be related to this main topic. Reading the topic sentence carefully is the best place to start.
Example:
In this case, the main topic is ephemera and the collector John Johnson.
3. Summarize the argument
Look at the text as a whole. Identify the main ideas that are advanced in the passage. The argument is often highlighted by a transitional term such as however, but, although, indeed etc. These terms introduce contrasts, paradoxes, and juxtapositions which are often key to understanding the meaning of the text. Read carefully for transitional terms to thoroughly grasp the main argument.
Example:
Argument: Prior to Johson’s death, his collection of ephemera was considered worthless. After his death, the Bodelian library grasped its value and acquired it.
The word “indeed” is a transitional term. It highlights the key contrast in the passage, which is that the importance of Johnson’s ephemera wasn’t realized until after his death. Once you have identified this key contrast, you are ready to choose an answer. We can expect that the correct answer will complete or summarize this argument.
4. Eliminate Extreme Options
Once you are able to summarize the argument, you should be able to eliminate answer options that are off-topic, too broad, or that contradict the argument. Eliminate choices that are too far-fetched or inconsistent with the passage. This is a critical tip to improve your SAT reading and writing score and to tackle inference questions on the Digital SAT.
Example:
For this question, A and C contradict the argument and B is off-topic.
Choice A contradicts the argument: The passage actually states that the Bodleian Library acquired the collection, suggesting that contemporary historians do have access to it.
Choice B is irrelevant to the argument: The passage does not discuss the challenge of incorporating ephemera into the Bodleian library. It only states that prior to Johnson’s death, the value of ephemera was not appreciated.
Choice C contradicts the argument: the example of Johnson shows that ephemera does have value. It does not suggest that ephemera holds no value.
Choice D is the best answer. It offers a conclusion that is well supported by the passage. Because the argument is fully stated in the passage, this answer choice is effectively a summary of the argument.
5. Use Evidence-Based Reasoning
Even though the answer isn’t explicitly stated, there should be textual evidence supporting it. Ensure your chosen answer aligns with the author’s ideas and the overall tone of the passage. This strategy is key to mastering SAT inference strategies.
To lock in this strategy, use Mentomind to practice specific inference questions.
Additional Resources
- Practice Tests: Utilize DSAT practice materials on Mentomind to familiarize yourself with inference questions and other SAT reading comprehension challenges.
- Vocabulary Building: Strengthen your vocabulary to better understand nuanced language and improve your SAT reading score.
- Active Reading: Practice active reading techniques to improve comprehension and retention, which is crucial for SAT success.
Final Thoughts
Mastering inference questions on the DSAT requires practice, attention to detail, and strategic thinking. By understanding the question types and employing the strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to improving your SAT reading and writing score. Remember, success on inference questions isn’t just about knowing the right answer—it’s about understanding why that answer is correct.
Happy studying, and good luck on your DSAT journey!
