Inferring meaning Inferences are broadly referred to what you read between lines Inferences are what the author suggests or implies. The author wants the reader to arrive at the same conclusion the author has arrived at. When the author implies something, the reader has to infer. Critical Reading Critical reading is engaging in what you read by posing questions to oneself. For example What is the author trying to say or what is the main idea or argument presented It involves a reasoned argument coupled with evaluation and analyses of what you read. Note: Don’t spend lot of time in skimming and scanning to avoid drifting away from the content of the paragraph.