Inference

Inference is a process of deriving new knowledge, given existing knowledge, and a number of rules. In logic, there are three different forms:
Deduction. Given some facts, and some rules, derive new knowledge. The best known case of this are syllogisms: All men are mortal, Socrates is a man, therefore Socrates is mortal. This is usually called deduction.
Induction. In a car, the brake is used; the car slows down; therefore: using the brake will slow down the car. This is called induction.
Abduction. Using the brake in a car will slow down the car; the car slows down; probably, the brake was used. This is called abduction.

 In other fields 
Inference in language, the opposite of implication (grammar)
Inference (statistics) means to draw conclusions from data
Type inference, determine type of variable or word

Category:Logic
Category:Sources of knowledge