Improving Speed and Accuracy in SQE: Tips and Tricks

As a prospective solicitor, the SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination) is an important milestone in your legal career. The SQE tests your knowledge and skills in various areas of law, including property law, commercial law, and more. One of the key challenges you will face during the SQE is managing your time effectively while maintaining accuracy in answering the exam questions. In this article, we will explore some tips and tricks to help you improve your speed and accuracy in the SQE.

1. Understand the Exam Structure

Before diving into the specifics, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the exam structure. The SQE is divided into two stages: SQE1 and SQE2. SQE1 consists of multiple-choice questions and is designed to test your knowledge of substantive and procedural law. SQE2 assesses your practical legal skills through tasks such as legal research, writing, and advocacy. Familiarize yourself with the format and requirements of each stage to better prepare yourself.

2. Time Management is Key

Time management is crucial during the SQE. Practice answering questions within the given time constraints to develop a sense of how much time you should allocate for each question. Prioritize the questions based on their weightage and difficulty level. Remember, it’s better to answer more questions correctly and leave out a few than rushing through and making mistakes on all of them.

As you practice, try to improve your speed without compromising accuracy. Speed can be enhanced through practice, so aim to build up your ability to read and analyze questions quickly.

3. Develop a Strategy for Multiple-Choice Questions

During SQE1, you will encounter multiple-choice questions that require you to choose the best answer from a set of options. To improve your speed, read the question first and then evaluate each option. Eliminate the obviously incorrect options, and then carefully compare the remaining choices to select the most accurate answer.

To boost your accuracy, thoroughly revise the relevant topics and ensure you understand the underlying concepts. The more familiar you are with the subject matter, the better equipped you’ll be to identify the correct answer and avoid common traps.

4. Enhance Legal Research Skills

Legal research is a crucial skill for solicitors. During the SQE2, you will be assessed on your ability to conduct thorough research and provide accurate legal advice. To improve your efficiency in legal research, familiarize yourself with various legal databases and resources. Practice using online tools to search for relevant precedents, case law, and legislation.

Additionally, take advantage of library resources and legal journals to stay updated on recent developments in the legal field. Good research skills will not only save you time but also strengthen the quality of your answers.

5. Practice Mock Exams

Practice makes perfect! Take advantage of mock exams and practice questions to simulate the real exam environment. Mock exams will help you assess your speed, accuracy, and identify areas for improvement. Analyze your performance, review the questions you got wrong, and understand the reasons behind your mistakes.

Consider joining a dedicated SQE training program where you can access multiple practice tests and receive personalized feedback from experienced tutors. This will provide you with valuable insights and help you refine your exam strategy.

6. Understand the Relevant Law

Thoroughly understanding the applicable law is fundamental to your success in the SQE. Take the time to delve into the specifics of each topic, such as joint ownership of property, commercial leases, tenant rights, property transactions, and land law. Familiarize yourself with the details and legal considerations related to these areas.

To gain more insights into specific topics, you can explore the following related articles:

By supplementing your SQE preparation with additional resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter and improve your ability to answer related questions accurately.

7. Stay Focused and Calm

Last but not least, stay focused and calm during the exam. Practice mindfulness techniques or meditation to help reduce stress and anxiety. Remember, maintaining a clear mind will allow you to think more clearly and perform better under pressure.

Keep an eye on the clock, but don’t let it consume your thoughts. Stay present and engage with each question to the best of your ability. If you encounter a challenging question, take a deep breath, move on to the next one, and come back to it later if you have time.

Improving speed and accuracy in the SQE is a gradual process that requires consistent practice and preparation. Implement these tips and tricks into your study routine, and you’ll be on your way to achieving success in the Solicitors Qualifying Examination.

Improving Speed and Accuracy in SQE: Tips and Tricks