Separate what happens from what you infer

1 · Learn

Read this original opening: 'The station clock had stopped at six. Mara checked her own watch, then tucked the unopened letter deeper into her coat. When the platform gate rattled, she stepped behind a pillar.' The clock's stopped hands are stated; the actual time is not.

An inference joins clues to a plausible explanation. Mara may be avoiding someone, but the passage does not identify that person. Keep the distinction between an evidenced possibility and an invented fact.

2 · Worked example

I infer caution from Mara hiding the letter and stepping behind the pillar. I cannot conclude the train is late, because no timetable or current time is supplied.

3 · Your turn

Which action best supports the idea that Mara wants to remain unseen?

4 · Apply your learning

Write one retrieval question and one inference question about the opening, with a justified answer to each.