Observation vs. Inference

Front

What is an observation?

Back

An observation is a statement based on what you can see, hear, smell, taste, or touch. It is factual and does not involve interpretation.

Front

What is an inference?

Back

An inference is a conclusion or interpretation made based on observations and prior knowledge. It goes beyond what is directly observed.

Front

What is a prediction?

Back

A prediction is a statement about what you think will happen in the future based on current evidence or trends.

Front

Example of an observation: 'The sky is blue.' What type of statement is this?

Back

Observation.

Front

Example of an inference: 'The ground is wet, so it must have rained.' What type of statement is this?

Back

Inference.

Front

Example of a prediction: 'I think it will rain tomorrow.' What type of statement is this?

Back

Prediction.

Front

How can you tell if a statement is an observation?

Back

A statement is an observation if it describes something that can be directly seen or measured without interpretation.

Front

How can you tell if a statement is an inference?

Back

A statement is an inference if it interprets or explains an observation, often using prior knowledge.

Front

How can you tell if a statement is a prediction?

Back

A statement is a prediction if it forecasts a future event based on current observations or trends.

Front

What is the difference between observation and inference?

Back

Observation is based on direct evidence, while inference is a conclusion drawn from observations.