Main Purpose or Intent of the Passage – LNAT Question Types Explained

The Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT) is a crucial component of the admissions process for many top law schools. The test evaluates a candidate’s critical thinking, reading, and reasoning skills, making it essential for aspiring law students to excel in these areas.

In section A of the LNAT, you will frequently come across questions asking you to identify the main intent or purpose of a passage. Even otherwise, it is very important to understand the bigger picture and the author’s intent to be able to answer questions correctly.

In this article, we will provide you with practical tips, tricks, and sample questions to help you master this skill.

And remember, LawMint’s LNAT Practice Tests include 360 passages, with 1260 questions – across 30 full length tests – for extensive practice.

Understanding the Main Intent or Purpose

The main intent of a passage is the author’s primary objective or central idea. It is the message they want to convey or the argument they wish to make. Identifying the main purpose of a passage is crucial for a thorough understanding of the text and an accurate analysis of the author’s perspective.

Tips and Tricks

• Read the passage carefully: Give yourself enough time to read and comprehend the text thoroughly. Skimming or rushing through the passage might cause you to miss important details or nuances that are essential for identifying the main intent.
• Look for the thesis statement: The thesis statement is usually the main argument or point the author wants to make. It is often found in the introduction or conclusion of a passage, and sometimes both. Identifying the thesis statement can provide a clear indication of the main purpose.
• Pay attention to the structure: Analyzing the structure of the passage can provide valuable clues about the main intent. Look for headings, subheadings, or topic sentences that summarize the main points. Observe how the author organizes their ideas and builds their argument.
• Identify key terms and phrases: Look for words or phrases that the author uses repeatedly or emphasizes. These key terms can help reveal the main idea or purpose of the passage.
• Consider the tone and style: The author’s tone and style can offer insights into their intent. For example, a persuasive tone may indicate that the main purpose is to convince the reader of a certain viewpoint, while a more neutral tone might suggest the author is simply presenting information.

Sample Questions

To help you practice identifying the main intent of a passage, we’ve provided three sample questions below. Read the accompanying passages and consider the tips provided earlier in the article to determine the main purpose of each text.

Example Question 1

“The increasing global demand for energy is posing significant challenges for governments and businesses worldwide. With finite fossil fuel resources and a growing need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the pursuit of alternative energy sources has become a top priority. Solar power, wind power, and hydroelectric power are just a few of the renewable energy sources being explored as potential solutions to this problem. While the transition to sustainable energy is a complex and daunting task, the long-term benefits of reducing our reliance on fossil fuels far outweigh the short-term challenges.”

What is the main intent of the passage?

A. To provide an overview of renewable energy sources.
B. To argue for the benefits of reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
C. To discuss the challenges faced by governments and businesses.
D. To compare different types of renewable energy sources.

Example Question 2

“Recent studies have shown that children who engage in regular physical activity exhibit higher academic performance compared to their less active peers. Exercise is known to improve memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function, which in turn can lead to better grades and test scores. Furthermore, participating in sports or other physical activities can help children develop essential life skills, such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. It is imperative that schools and parents prioritize physical activity in order to foster both physical and mental well-being among children.”

What is the main intent of the passage?

A. To explain the benefits of physical activity for children.
B. To compare the academic performance of active and inactive children.
C. To argue for the importance of prioritizing physical activity in schools and at home.
D. To discuss the relationship between exercise and cognitive function.

Example Question 3

“In recent years, the rise of social media has had a profound impact on communication and human interaction. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have transformed the way people share information, connect with others, and express themselves. While social media offers numerous benefits, such as instant communication and access to a global audience, it has also given rise to a number of concerns. Issues such as cyberbullying, privacy invasion, and the spread of misinformation have led many to question whether the negative consequences of social media outweigh the positives.”

What is the main intent of the passage?

A. To analyze the impact of social media on communication and human interaction.
B. To provide an overview of different social media platforms.
C. To explore the benefits and drawbacks of using social media.
D. To argue for or against the use of social media.

Answers to sample questions:

• Example question 1: B. To argue for the benefits of reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
• Example question 2: C. To argue for the importance of prioritizing physical activity in schools and at home.
• Example question 3: C. To explore the benefits and drawbacks of using social media.

Practice makes you perfect

The ability to identify the main intent or purpose of a passage is crucial for success in the LNAT and for developing strong reading comprehension skills.

By using the tips and tricks outlined in this article and practicing with sample questions, you will be well on your way to mastering this essential skill.

LawMint’s LNAT Practice Tests have 360 passages, with 1260 questions for extensive practice. When you read the passages for the first time, make it a habit to understand the bigger picture – the main purpose or primary intent of the passage.

Remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to seek out additional passages to analyze and dissect as you prepare for the LNAT. Good luck!