Test Format and Structure

Understanding the precise format and structure of the LNAT is essential before you begin any preparation. The test consists of two sections — a multiple-choice comprehension section and a written essay — each with strict time limits. This lesson provides a detailed breakdown so you can plan your preparation effectively.

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Overview

The LNAT is delivered as a single, continuous computer-based test lasting 2 hours and 15 minutes (135 minutes) in total. It is divided into two sections:

Section	Content	Time
Section A	Multiple-choice comprehension	95 minutes
Section B	Written essay	40 minutes

You complete Section A first, then move on to Section B. Once you begin Section B, you cannot return to Section A.

There is no separate break between the two sections. The timer for Section B begins as soon as Section A ends (or when you choose to move on).

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Section A: Multiple-Choice Comprehension

Format

Feature	Detail
Number of questions	42
Number of passages	12
Questions per passage	3 or 4
Time allowed	95 minutes
Time per passage (average)	~8 minutes (reading + answering)
Time per question (average)	~2 minutes 15 seconds

How It Works

You are presented with 12 passages of argumentative text, each typically 600–900 words long. The passages cover a wide range of topics — politics, ethics, science, culture, law, philosophy, economics, and social issues.

For each passage, you answer 3 or 4 multiple-choice questions. Each question has four answer options (A, B, C, D), and you must select the single best answer.

What the Questions Test

Section A questions assess your ability to:

• Identify the main conclusion of an argument
• Understand the author's purpose and tone — Are they persuading, informing, criticising, or defending?
• Distinguish fact from opinion — What is stated as evidence and what is asserted as belief?
• Draw inferences — What does the passage imply, even if it is not stated directly?
• Evaluate reasoning — Is the author's argument logically sound? Are there hidden assumptions?
• Understand vocabulary in context — What does a particular word or phrase mean in the passage?

Scoring

• Each correct answer scores 1 mark
• There is no negative marking — you are not penalised for incorrect answers
• Your Section A score is reported as a whole number out of 42 (i.e., 1–42)
• The average score is typically around 21–22 out of 42

Critical Point: Because there is no negative marking, you should always answer every question, even if you have to guess. Leaving a question blank guarantees zero marks; guessing gives you at least a 25% chance of scoring.

Navigation

You can navigate freely within Section A — moving forwards and backwards between questions, flagging questions for review, and changing your answers. This is a significant tactical advantage. If you are unsure about a question, you can flag it and return to it later.

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Section B: Written Essay

Format

Feature	Detail
Number of questions offered	3
Number of essays to write	1
Time allowed	40 minutes
Maximum word count	750 words
Typed on computer	Yes

How It Works

You are presented with three essay questions on a range of general topics. You must choose one and write a persuasive, well-structured essay in response.

The essay questions are designed to be accessible to all candidates — no specialist knowledge is required. Typical topics include ethics, politics, social issues, justice, rights, and current affairs. Examples of the style of question include: