Fact vs Inference – LNAT Question Types Explained

What is the difference between a Fact and an Inference?

Fact

Facts are statements that can be proven, as they are based on objective evidence. They are verifiable and can be confirmed by checking against reliable sources. In simple words, Facts are Truths.

Examples of Facts

• The Earth revolves around the Sun.
• London is the capital of the United Kingdom.
• Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius at sea level.
• Barack Obama was the 44th President of the United States.
• There are 206 bones in the adult human body.

All of the above statements can be verified as true, as they will have one or more objective and reliable evidences to support them.

Inference

Inferences are conclusions or judgments drawn from facts or evidence.

Inferences are interpretations of information and may vary depending on the perspective of the person making the inference.

For example, two doctors may look at the same medical report and draw different inferences – depending on their experience, expertise and interpretation of the report. Both the inferences are made on the basis of specific information.

Examples of Inferences

• The weather forecast predicts rain (d), so John might take an umbrella to work. (i)
• Sarah is studying late at the library (d), suggesting she is committed to her academics. (i)
• Tom’s car has a flat tire (d); he likely hit a sharp object on the road. (i)
• The restaurant is crowded (d), indicating that it is popular or has good food. (i)
• Julie received a promotion (d), so she must be doing well at her job. (i)

In all of the above statements, there are two distinct parts. First, there is some data or information (d), which is the basis for the inference (i).

How to answer Fact vs Inference questions in the LNAT?

Facts and inferences are two types of information that you will come across in reading comprehension questions in section A of the LNAT.

As with other questions, these too are intended to assess the test-taker’s critical thinking, and analytical skills.

To differentiate between facts and inferences, focus on the source of the information.

• Facts are typically straightforward, concrete, and can be confirmed,
• while inferences involve an element of interpretation or judgment based on available evidence.

Important points to consider while answering Fact vs Inference questions

• First of all, read the passage carefully and thoroughly, ensuring you understand the main points and the context.
• Identify keywords and phrases that indicate facts, such as dates, numbers, or specific names.
• Look for words that signal inferences, like “suggests,” “implies,” “indicates,” or “may.”
• Strictly focus on the evidence provided in the text and avoid making assumptions based on personal beliefs or opinions. The LNAT instructions are very clear that no external information should be used while answering the questions.
• When encountering a fact, verify its accuracy by referring to the text and ensure that it is not contradicted elsewhere in the passage.
• When making inferences, consider the author’s purpose, tone, and the evidence provided.

The tone of a passage plays a crucial role in understanding its meaning. When an author uses sarcasm, the intended message might be contrary to the literal meaning. For instance, if the writer criticizes the airplane and airline, then claims it was “the best flight ever,” the actual implication could be that the flight was unpleasant.

Practice reading comprehension exercises to improve your ability to identify and differentiate between facts and inferences.

Remember ! Questions in the LNAT may not always have the keywords ‘Fact’ or ‘Inference’. Read the question carefully to understand the intention – what does the question want you to do?

Examples of ‘Fact’ questions that may appear in LNAT.

• Which statement from the passage is a verifiable fact?
• Identify a fact that supports the author’s main argument.
• Which of the following statements is a fact, rather than an opinion?
• How does the author use facts to strengthen their argument?
• What fact from the passage contradicts the opposing viewpoint?

Keywords that will help in identifying and answering ‘fact’ related questions.

• Evidence
• Proof
• Support
• Factual
• Objective
• Real
• Verifiable
• Demonstrable
• Empirical
• Data
• Information
• Observation
• Record
• Authentic
• Accurate

Examples of ‘Inference’ questions that may appear in LNAT.

• What can be inferred about the author’s perspective on the central issue?
• Based on the passage, what can be inferred about the consequences of the proposed solution?
• Which statement can be inferred from the author’s argument?
• What can be inferred about the author’s intended audience?
• Which of the following inferences is most consistent with the information provided in the passage?

Keywords that will help in identifying and answering ‘inference’ related questions.

• Conclusion
• Deduction
• Inference
• Implication
• Consequence
• Follows from
• Reasoning
• Interpretation
• Analysis
• Logic
• Argument
• Persuasion
• Conviction
• Probability
• Likelihood
• Correlation
• Association