How do I Study for the SQE2?
The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) represents a significant shift in the way aspiring solicitors qualify in England and Wales. While SQE1 is a multiple-choice exam, SQE2 assesses legal knowledge as well as a range of practical legal skills. This blog post will guide you through effective strategies to prepare for SQE2.
Understanding the Structure of SQE2
Before diving into study strategies, it’s crucial to understand what SQE2 entails. The exam assesses six practical legal skills across five practice subjects:
- Client Interviewing and Attendance Note Writing
- Advocacy
- Case and Matter Analysis
- Legal Research
- Legal Drafting
- Legal Writing
The practice subjects include:
- Criminal Litigation
- Dispute Resolution
- Property Practice
- Wills and the Administration of Estates
- Business Organisations, Rules, and Procedures
Effective Study Strategies for SQE2
Create an Effective Study Plan
A well-organised study plan is essential for success in any examination. Start by identifying your strengths and weaknesses across the six practical skills and five practice contexts. Allocate more time to areas where you feel less confident. Ensure that your study time is focused on activities that help you be as prepared as possible. Try avoiding spending months just reading your textbooks. Your revision should focus on the following activities:
- Active recall revision of the functioning legal knowledge – by testing yourself and checking that you can recall the law without checking your notes.
- Practicing mocks and consciously tailoring your answers to the criteria you will be tested on.
- Being strategic by creating checklists and structures for common assessment types to memorise, so that you do not spend any time thinking about what you need to do during the actual exam.
Utilise Multiple Resources
While an SQE2 prep course may be your primary resource, you should also use additional materials such as other textbooks, courses, outlines and mocks. Diversifying your study resources will provide different perspectives on complex topics – some providers focus more in some areas, whilst other less so. Getting a mix of resources will reduce the chances of being thrown on the actual exam.
Join Study Groups
Joining a study group can provide mutual support and motivation as you prepare for SQE2. Discussing complex topics with peers can also offer new insights and help reinforce your understanding.
Take Mock Exams
Mock exams are an excellent way to simulate real exam conditions and assess your readiness for SQE2. Many prep courses include mock exams as part of their curriculum, but if you are not enrolled in a prep course, then be sure to obtain mocks from my sources. I offer mocks here. You can also practice with the SRA sample questions which can be found here.
Specific Tips for Each Practical Skill Area
Client Interviewing
Practise active listening techniques to ensure you fully understand clients’ needs during interviews. Role-play client interviews with peers or mentors to build confidence. Review common client interview scenarios relevant to each practice context.
Advocacy
Watch videos of effective advocates in action to learn persuasive techniques. Practise delivering opening statements, closing arguments, and cross-examinations. Record yourself practising advocacy exercises to identify areas for improvement.
Case and Matter Analysis
Develop a systematic approach for critical analysis by identifying key issues early. Practise writing by doing mock exams.
Legal Research
Practise researching specific legal questions within tight time constraints. Practise skim-reading and finding materials quickly.
Legal Drafting
Review examples of well-drafted legal documents relevant to each practice subject. Practise drafting various types of documents such as contracts or wills under timed conditions. Seek feedback on your drafts from experienced tutors or mentors.
Legal Writing
Memorise letter formats. Improve your writing by checking it with tools for clarity, grammar and spelling issues. Avoid using jargon and write in a clear and easy-to-understand manner.
Conclusion: The Importance of Consistent Effort
Preparing for SQE2 requires consistent effort over an extended period but focusing on the right things, such as active recall revision, practicing mocks and memorising strategies, can significantly enhance your chances of success! All the best of luck. Any issues or questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at madeleine@inhousew.com and if you are looking for additional materials to help with your revision, click here.