The process of drawing a conclusion based on evidence is called inference. Inference involves using the information available, such as facts, observations, and previous knowledge, to reach a logical conclusion.
For example, if you see wet streets and dark clouds in the sky, you might infer that it has recently rained. This process is crucial in both everyday decision-making and scientific research, as it allows individuals to make sense of the information they have and to anticipate outcomes based on available evidence.
Inferences can be strong or weak, depending on the quality and quantity of evidence. It’s important to critically evaluate the evidence before reaching a conclusion, as faulty inferences can lead to misunderstandings or incorrect assumptions.