Drawing Conclusions

Drawing conclusions means using information to figure something out on your own. Sometimes an author does not tell you everything directly. You have to use clues in the text plus what you already know. This skill helps you become a smarter reader and thinker.

How to Draw Conclusions

First, look for clues in the text. Then think about what you already know about the topic. Put the clues and your knowledge together to figure out what the author means. For example, if a character is wearing a coat and shivering, you can conclude it is cold outside.

Practice Makes Perfect

You draw conclusions every day without even thinking about it. If you see dark clouds in the sky, you conclude it might rain. Reading gives you lots of chances to practice this skill. The more you read, the better you get at putting clues together.

Fun Facts

• Detectives draw conclusions from clues to solve crimes.
• Drawing conclusions is sometimes called reading between the lines.
• Doctors draw conclusions from symptoms to figure out what is making someone sick.

Did You Know?

The famous detective Sherlock Holmes was known for drawing amazing conclusions from tiny clues that other people missed.