What does "textual evidence" refer to in reading comprehension?

Textual evidence refers to specific examples or quotes directly taken from a text that are used to support interpretations or conclusions regarding its content. When analyzing a piece of literature, argument, or any written material, textual evidence is essential because it grounds interpretations in the actual words and context of the author. This evidence includes direct quotations, paraphrases, or specific details that illustrate the points being made, thereby lending credibility and substantiation to an argument or analysis.

For instance, if someone interprets a character's actions in a story, citing a specific instance from the text where those actions occur serves as textual evidence. This not only clarifies the interpretation but also demonstrates a deeper engagement with the text itself.

Other choices, like general summaries or opinions, do not provide the precise backing needed for meaningful analysis because they do not anchor the interpretation in the text. Similarly, discussing characters' backgrounds without referencing specific instances in the text lacks a direct connection to the material being analyzed. Hence, referring to specific examples or quotes clearly identifies what textual evidence is and why it is a crucial component of reading comprehension.