Robin Burden answered
Although 'inference' and 'conclusion' might sound like two words that describe the same concept, the terms are actually complete opposites.
An inference is when someone makes a generalization based on specific information.
On the other hand, a conclusion is a specific piece of information that is supported by general facts.
What's the difference between an inference and a conclusion?
The best way to answer this question would be to give you an example:
Imagine a shampoo company was testing a new range out on a lab monkey (yes, very cruel... I know).
The data derived from the test might be something like: "When the shampoo product was applied to the monkey's fur, it turned bright blue and the monkey was in discomfort".
An inference would be a general statement based on the data provided, so - in this case - the inference would be something like: "chemicals can harm animals" or "testing on animals is bad".
A conclusion from the same test's data would be very different.
This would involve a specific statement like: "the chemicals in the test product caused discoloration of the fur".
The conclusion is a more detailed analysis of general facts.
An inference is when someone makes a generalization based on specific information.
On the other hand, a conclusion is a specific piece of information that is supported by general facts.
What's the difference between an inference and a conclusion?
The best way to answer this question would be to give you an example:
Imagine a shampoo company was testing a new range out on a lab monkey (yes, very cruel... I know).
The data derived from the test might be something like: "When the shampoo product was applied to the monkey's fur, it turned bright blue and the monkey was in discomfort".
An inference would be a general statement based on the data provided, so - in this case - the inference would be something like: "chemicals can harm animals" or "testing on animals is bad".
A conclusion from the same test's data would be very different.
This would involve a specific statement like: "the chemicals in the test product caused discoloration of the fur".
The conclusion is a more detailed analysis of general facts.
