FREE Kaplan Nursing (KNAT) Study Guide 2026

This free KNAT study guide walks through every section of the Kaplan Nursing Admission Test (KNAT) — the four-part nursing-school admission exam that many LPN and RN programs require: Reading, Writing, Math, and Science.^[1]

Unlike some admission tests, the KNAT’s structure is fixed: 91 multiple-choice questions across four separately timed sections, for about 165 minutes total. You get a percentage for each section plus a composite score, and each program sets its own required scores— so there is no single national pass mark. Confirm your program’s minimums before you study.^[2]

It’s interactive, not a wall of text: every section has high-yield notes, worked examples, labeled diagrams, flashcards, and practice questions, so you learn by doing — not just reading. Drill gaps with our free practice test and flashcards.

KNAT Exam Snapshot

The KNAT is a proctored, computer-based, multiple-choice test. The four sections are fixed in count and time, though the fee and retake rules are set by the program or testing site, not nationally — so treat those as dynamic and confirm them locally.^[1][2]

Math is the largest section (28 questions) and Science the smallest (20). There is no universal passing score; a passing composite commonly falls around 65 percent (roughly 60–70 percent), and some programs require 70 percent or a minimum in specific sections.^[2] The fee, when a school charges one, is often a small testing fee (commonly in the $25–$70 range) — verify it with your program.

Reading

The Reading section is 22 questions in 45 minutes. You read short-to-medium passages — often health, science, or general-interest — and answer questions about them. The dominant skill is disciplined reading: every answer must be supported by the passage, so bringing in outside knowledge is the single biggest trap.^[4]

Main idea, supporting details, and inference

Separate three things the questions deliberately blur. The main idea is the single point the whole passage supports; a supporting detail is a stated fact that backs it; and an inference is a conclusion the passage logically supports but does not state. The classic trap is a true detail dressed up as the main idea.^[4]

The main idea often appears in the first or last sentence of a paragraph. For detail questions (“according to the passage…”), scan for keywords to find the exact sentence. For an inference, stay one small stepfrom the text — reject any choice that adds outside facts, even if it “could be true in real life.”^[4]

Author's purpose, tone, and text structure

Identify the author's purpose: to inform, persuade, entertain, describe, or instruct. Most KNAT passages are informational and written to inform, so beware reading them as persuasive. Tone is the author's attitude, judged from word choice — most informational passages are neutral and objective.^[4]

Recognize organization from signal words: because/therefore (cause–effect), however/unlike (contrast), first/next/finally (sequence), and for example (illustration). Separate fact (verifiable) from opinion (a judgment, often marked by best, should, or unfortunately).^[4]

Passage analysis and vocabulary in context

Some questions ask what a word means as used in the passage. Don’t default to the dictionary’s first definition — use the context cluein the surrounding sentence (definition, contrast, example, or restatement) and the sentence’s charge (positive or negative) to pick the meaning that actually fits.^[4]

Reading strategy and common traps

Read the question first, then scan the passage for the relevant spot — you have roughly two minutes per question. Eliminate choices that are too broad, too narrow, not stated, or contradicted. For “EXCEPT/NOT” questions, find the three that ARE supported; the odd one out is the answer.^[4]

Writing

The Writing section is 21 questions in 45 minutes. It tests standard formal written English — grammar, mechanics, sentence structure, and how ideas are organized into clear paragraphs. Questions typically ask you to pick the correct or best version of a sentence, or to improve a short passage.^[5]

Grammar and mechanics

Subject-verb agreementis tested on nearly every form: ignore words between the subject and verb (“The box of supplies ishere”), and treat indefinite pronouns (each, every, everyone, neither) as singular. For pronoun case, use subject pronouns (I, he, she, we, they) as subjects and object pronouns (me, him, her, us, them) as objects — “between you and me,” never “I.”^[5]

Mechanics covers punctuation, capitalization, and spelling. Use the apostrophe for possession (nurse’s) and contractions (don’t), never for plain plurals; a comma separates items in a list and sets off introductory phrases; a semicolon joins two related independent clauses. Watch high-yield homophones like affect/effect and their/there/they’re.^[6]

Sentence structure

Build complete, correct sentences. A fragmentis missing a subject or verb (“Because she studied.”); a run-on or comma splice wrongly joins two independent clauses(“She studied, she passed.”) — fix with a period, semicolon, or a conjunction. Keep items in a list parallel (“reading, writing, and studying”), and place modifiers next to what they modify to avoid a dangling modifier.^[5]

Paragraph logic and organization

Beyond single sentences, the Writing section checks whether a passage is organized. A clear paragraph opens with a topic sentence, supports it with details in a logical order, and uses transition wordsto signal relationships (however, therefore, for example, in contrast). Watch for a sentence that belongs elsewhere, a missing transition, or a detail that doesn’t support the topic sentence.^[7]

Passage editing strategy

For edit-the-passage items, read the whole sentence — and sometimes the sentences around it — before choosing. The best answer is the clearest, most concise version that fixes the error without adding a new one. Prefer active voice and the simplest correct option; if a choice introduces wordiness or a new mistake, eliminate it.^[5]

Math

Math is the largest KNAT section — 28 questions in 45 minutes — and the biggest score-mover. It is applied arithmetic, not advanced algebra: the exam rewards fast, accurate work with fractions, decimals, percents, ratios, proportions, and conversions, plus a few simple equations and word problems. Be ready to work without leaning on a calculator.^[8]

Arithmetic and order of operations

Follow PEMDAS on every multi-step problem: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division (left to right), then Addition/Subtraction (left to right). The most-missed order-of-operations error is doing addition before multiplication — $6 + 3 \times 4 - 2 = 16$, not 34. Know the rules for signed numbers, too: a negative times a negative is positive.^[8]

Fractions, decimals, and percents

Convert fluently in every direction. A fraction becomes a decimal by dividing top by bottom; a decimal becomes a percent by multiplying by 100; a percent becomes a fraction over 100, then reduce. The single most common careless error is not simplifying the final answer — answer choices are usually in lowest terms.^[8]

To add or subtract fractions, find a common denominator first ($\frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{6} = \frac{3}{12} + \frac{2}{12} = \frac{5}{12}$); to multiply, go straight across and simplify; to divide, multiply by the reciprocal ($\frac{1}{2} \div \frac{3}{4} = \frac{1}{2} \times \frac{4}{3} = \frac{2}{3}$).^[8]

For percents, anchor on one relationship: $\text{part} = (\text{percent} \div 100) \times \text{whole}$. Percent change is separate: $\frac{\text{new} - \text{old}}{\text{old}} \times 100$ — always divide by the original value.^[8]

Ratios, proportions, and conversions

A proportion sets two ratios equal; solve by cross-multiplication: $\frac{a}{b} = \frac{c}{d} \Rightarrow ad = bc$. Keep matching units in matching positions on both sides — a mismatched setup is the top failure mode. Most KNAT word problems — rates, conversions, and percents — are proportions in disguise.^[8]

Conversions show up often, so know the metric ladder and common equivalents (1 kg = 2.2 lb, 1 in = 2.54 cm, 1 L = 1000 mL). Move down the metric ladder (kg → g → mg) by multiplying, and up by dividing.^[8]

Algebra basics and word problems

Basic algebra is light: solve for the variable with inverse operations, e.g. $3x + 5 = 20 \Rightarrow 3x = 15 \Rightarrow x = 5$. For word problems, translate the words into an equation: “5 more than twice a number is 17” becomes $2n + 5 = 17$, so $n = 6$. Read carefully to decide whether to add, subtract, multiply, or divide before you compute.^[8]

Science

Science is 20 questions in 30 minutes — the shortest section, but feared for its breadth. Anatomy & physiology is the heaviest part, followed by biology, basic chemistry, and scientific reasoning. Study broad system function and cause-and-effect, not just isolated definitions.^[10]

Anatomy & physiology (the heaviest topic)

The heart appears on virtually every form, so know it cold. It has four chambers — right and left atria (receive) and right and left ventricles (pump). The left ventricle is the strongest because it pumps to the whole body. Valves: tricuspid (right, 3 cusps) and bicuspid/mitral (left, 2 cusps) — mnemonic LAB RAT (Left = Bicuspid, Right = Tricuspid).^[9]

Also know directional terms (anterior/posterior, superior/inferior, medial/lateral) and the body planes: sagittal (left/right), frontal/coronal (front/back), and transverse (top/bottom). Survey the major systems and how they keep the body in homeostasis through negative feedback — as when insulin lowers high blood glucose.^[13]

Biology, cells, and genetics

Match each organelle to its job: the mitochondria make ATP, ribosomes build proteins, and the nucleus holds DNA. Transport: diffusion and osmosis are passive (no energy), while active transport needs ATP.^[11]

Distinguish mitosis (one division → two identical diploid cells, for growth and repair) from meiosis (two divisions → four unique haploid gametes, for reproduction). The central dogma flows DNA → RNA → protein, and basic Mendelian genetics (a $Bb \times Bb$ cross gives a 3:1 phenotype ratio) can appear too.^[11]

Chemistry basics

Chemistry on the KNAT is conceptual. An atom has protons (+) and neutrons (0) in the nucleus and electrons (−) in shells; the atomic number (protons) defines the element, and valence electrons drive bonding. An ionic bond transfers electrons (metal + nonmetal, e.g. $\ce{NaCl}$); a covalent bond shares them (nonmetals, e.g. $\ce{H2O}$).^[12]

The pH scale runs 0–14: below 7 acidic, 7 neutral, above 7 basic, with pH + pOH = 14. Strong acids ($\ce{HCl}$) fully dissociate; strong bases include $\ce{NaOH}$. Balance equations by changing coefficients only, never subscripts — required by conservation of mass.^[12]

Scientific reasoning

Some questions test the scientific method rather than memorized facts. Know that a hypothesis is a testable prediction, that a good experiment changes one independent variable while measuring the dependent variable and holding everything else constant, and that a control group provides the baseline for comparison.^[8]

How to Use This Study Guide

The KNAT scores all four sections, so a balanced plan beats cramming one area. Confirm your program’s required scores first, then work the sections one at a time alongside our free practice tools — not on their own:

KNAT Glossary

Quick definitions for the terms you’ll see most across the four KNAT sections:

affect

Usually a verb meaning to influence (an Action).

anterior

Toward the front of the body (ventral).

atomic number

The number of protons in an atom's nucleus; it defines the element.

author's purpose

Why a text was written: to inform, persuade, entertain, describe, or instruct.

comma splice

Two independent clauses joined by only a comma; fix with a period, semicolon, or a conjunction.

composite score

The average of your four KNAT section percentages, reported alongside each individual section score; many programs review the composite, the section scores, or both.

context clue

A hint in the surrounding sentence — definition, contrast, example, or restatement — that reveals a word's meaning.

control group

The group that does not receive the experimental treatment, used as a baseline for comparison.

covalent bond

A bond formed by sharing electrons, typically between nonmetals.

cross-multiplication

Solving a proportion $a/b = c/d$ by setting $a \times d$ equal to $b \times c$, then solving for the unknown.

dependent variable

The factor measured in an experiment; it depends on the independent variable.

diffusion

Movement of particles from high to low concentration (passive, no ATP).

effect

Usually a noun meaning a result (the rEsult).

fact

A statement that can be verified as true or false.

fragment

An incomplete sentence missing a subject, a verb, or a complete thought.

frontal plane

The coronal plane; divides the body into front and back.

homeostasis

The body's maintenance of a stable internal environment (temperature, pH, glucose) despite outside change, usually by negative feedback.

homophone

A word that sounds like another but differs in spelling and meaning, such as their, there, and they're.

hypothesis

A testable prediction proposed to explain an observation.

independent clause

A group of words with a subject and verb that can stand alone as a complete sentence.

independent variable

The one factor a scientist deliberately changes in an experiment.

inference

A conclusion a passage logically supports but does not state outright; on the KNAT it must stay close to the text.

ionic bond

A bond formed by transferring electrons, typically between a metal and a nonmetal.

Kaplan

Kaplan, the education company that publishes the Kaplan Nursing Admission Test (KNAT) used by many LPN and RN programs as part of their admission process.

KNAT

The Kaplan Nursing Admission Test, a proctored, computer-based, multiple-choice nursing-school admission exam with four timed sections — Reading, Writing, Math, and Science (91 questions, about 165 minutes total).

left ventricle

The largest, strongest heart chamber; pumps oxygenated blood to the whole body through the aorta.

main idea

The single most important point a passage makes; it covers the whole passage, broader than any one detail.

meiosis

Cell division producing four genetically unique haploid gametes for reproduction.

mitochondria

The 'powerhouse' organelle; site of cellular respiration and ATP production.

mitosis

Cell division producing two genetically identical diploid cells for growth and repair.

mitral valve

The bicuspid (two-cusp) left atrioventricular valve (the L in LAB RAT).

negative feedback

A control loop that reverses a change to restore balance, such as insulin lowering high blood glucose.

opinion

A belief or judgment that cannot be verified; often signaled by best, should, or unfortunately.

order of operations

The sequence (PEMDAS) for evaluating an expression so everyone gets the same answer.

organelle

A specialized structure within a cell, such as the mitochondria or nucleus.

osmosis

The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.

PEMDAS

Order of operations: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division (left to right), Addition/Subtraction (left to right).

percent change

(new value $-$ old value) $\div$ old value $\times 100$; positive is an increase, negative a decrease.

pH scale

A 0–14 logarithmic scale of acidity; below 7 acidic, 7 neutral, above 7 basic.

posterior

Toward the back of the body (dorsal).

proportion

An equation stating that two ratios are equal, such as $a/b = c/d$; solved by cross-multiplication.

ratio

A comparison of two quantities, written $a:b$ or $a/b$.

ribosome

The site of protein synthesis.

run-on

Two independent clauses joined without proper punctuation or a conjunction.

sagittal plane

Divides the body into left and right.

subject-verb agreement

The rule that a verb must match its subject in number — a singular subject takes a singular verb.

supporting detail

A specific fact or example that backs up the main idea; never the main idea itself.

tone

The author's attitude toward the subject, conveyed through word choice (neutral, critical, enthusiastic, cautionary).

topic sentence

The sentence that states a paragraph's main point, usually first; the other sentences support it.

transition word

A word or phrase (however, therefore, for example) that signals the relationship between ideas.

transverse plane

Divides the body into top (superior) and bottom (inferior).

tricuspid valve

The right atrioventricular valve with three cusps (the R in LAB RAT).

valence electron

An outer-shell electron that drives chemical bonding.

variable

A symbol (often $x$) that stands for an unknown number you solve for.

Free KNAT Study Materials & Resources

Everything you need to prepare for the Kaplan Nursing Admission Test is free here — no paywall, no sign-up. This guide is the foundation; pair it with the rest of our free KNAT study materials:

• KNAT Practice Test — realistic, section-weighted questions with explanations.
• KNAT Flashcards — active-recall decks for the high-yield facts across all four sections.

KNAT Study Guide FAQ

References

1. 1.Kaplan. “Nursing Admissions Testing (KNAT Overview).” kaptest.com. ↑
2. 2.Kaplan. “Preparing for the Kaplan Nursing Admission Test (KNAT) — Prep Guide.” kaptest.com. ↑
3. 3.Kaplan Test Prep. “Nursing School Entrance Exams Prep.” kaptest.com. ↑
4. 4.Purdue Online Writing Lab (Purdue University). “Reading Comprehension: Main Idea, Inference, and Author's Purpose.” owl.purdue.edu. ↑
5. 5.Purdue Online Writing Lab (Purdue University). “Grammar, Sentence Structure, Agreement, and Punctuation.” owl.purdue.edu. ↑
6. 6.Purdue Online Writing Lab (Purdue University). “Commonly Confused Words, Spelling, and Mechanics.” owl.purdue.edu. ↑
7. 7.Purdue Online Writing Lab (Purdue University). “Paragraphs, Transitions, and Organization.” owl.purdue.edu. ↑
8. 8.National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). “The Metric System, Ratios, and Unit Conversion.” nist.gov. ↑
9. 9.National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NIH). “How the Heart Works: Blood Flow.” nhlbi.nih.gov. ↑
10. 10.National Cancer Institute SEER Training (NIH). “Anatomical Terminology, Planes, and Body Systems.” training.seer.cancer.gov. ↑
11. 11.National Human Genome Research Institute (NIH). “Cells, Organelles, DNA, and Cell Division (Genetics Glossary).” genome.gov. ↑
12. 12.National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). “Atomic Structure, Bonding, and the pH Scale (Periodic Table).” nist.gov. ↑
13. 13.National Library of Medicine (NIH), Bookshelf. “Physiology, Homeostasis.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. ↑
14. 14.MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine (NIH). “Endocrine Glands, Hormones, and Body Systems.” medlineplus.gov. ↑

Sources for the concept answers

Every answer in the KNAT concept questions above is drawn from an official or authoritative primary source:

1. Purdue Online Writing Lab (Purdue University). “Sentence Fragments, Run-ons, and Comma Splices.” owl.purdue.edu, accessed 19 June 2026.
2. National Human Genome Research Institute (NIH). “Mitochondria and Cell Organelles (Genetics Glossary).” genome.gov, accessed 19 June 2026.

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