Reading Comprehension: Explicit and Implicit Meaning
This domain tests whether you can locate information that is stated directly and infer meaning that is suggested but not stated. NSSCO English First Language passages may be narrative, informative or argumentative, and questions often ask you to explain, infer, compare or comment on a phrase.
Core rules
- Read the whole passage once for gist, then reread the section named in the question.
- Distinguish explicit meaning (the text says it) from implicit meaning (the text suggests it).
- Answer the command word: 'identify' needs a short label; 'explain' needs a reason; 'infer' needs a conclusion supported by evidence.
- Use your own words unless the question asks you to quote.
- For two-part questions, answer both parts and make the link clear.
Worked example
Passage sentence: 'Although the bus was late, Nangula arrived at the interview calm and prepared.' Question: What does this suggest about Nangula? Answer: She remains composed under pressure; the contrast word 'although' shows that the delay did not unsettle her, and 'calm and prepared' suggests self-control. Reasoning: the answer goes beyond the literal fact of lateness and explains the inference using two pieces of evidence.
Traps that cost marks
- Copying a whole sentence instead of explaining it.
- Over-inferring: claiming she is 'always punctual' when the text only says the bus was late.
- Missing a second part of the question, such as 'and why does this matter?'
- Lifting text when the question says 'in your own words'.
- Ignoring the line or paragraph reference and answering from general knowledge.