Grammar Guidelines

An inference is a conclusion that one makes after being presented with a set of data. This type of exercise requires reading comprehension and memory. Practicing with inferences can improve your ability to understand and retain what you read as well as your ability to think critically. An inference, in its simplest form: All books are made of paper . All paper is made from trees. Therefore, all books are made from trees. Inferences which include false premises can also lead to false conclusions. For example: All geniuses are from Ireland. Bobby Fischer is a genius. Therefore, Bobby Fischer is from Ireland. (false conclusion based on false premises) Try out this inference exercise for yourself: Every afternoon we either roller-blade, hike, or work out at the gym. We only choose one activity per day. The activity that we choose is completely dependent upon weather and daylight. We roller-blade or hike if the temperature is 45 degrees or above. If it is raining

It is astounding the number of people who use the phrase "I could care less." Little do they know, they are saying the exact opposite of what they mean. If they really stop to think about it, they want to get across the point that they could NOT care less. In fact, they care so little that it isn't possible to be more indifferent. Incorrect: could care less Correct: couldn't care less