What are context clues used for in reading?

Context clues are used in reading to help clarify the meaning of a word by providing hints within the surrounding text. These clues can come in various forms, such as definitions, synonyms, antonyms, or examples that help readers infer the meaning of unfamiliar words. By utilizing context clues, readers can enhance their comprehension and develop a more nuanced understanding of the material without needing to consult a dictionary.

In this context, while improving reading speed, summarizing a passage, and determining the author's intent are all important skills in reading, they do not specifically relate to how context clues function. Their primary role is to aid in understanding vocabulary, making option B the most accurate choice in this scenario.