SQE2 Resit Strategies: Turning Failure into Success

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) exams are necessary to qualify as solicitors in England and Wales. While many candidates successfully navigate the SQE2, some may find themselves needing to resit. If you’re among those who didn’t achieve the desired results, don’t be disheartened – it can happen to anyone and is no reflection on you or your abilities! In this blog post, we will explore a couple of strategies for resitting the SQE2 and turning your failure into success.

Understanding the SQE2 

Before diving into resit strategies, it’s important to remind yourself again what the SQE2 entails. Visit the the SRA website here and spend some time understanding the individual criteria that you will be marked on within each assessment. Failing any part of the SQE2 can be disheartening, but it’s essential to remember that many candidates do pass on the second or third attempt. The key lies in how you approach your resit.

Reflect on Your Previous Attempt

The next step in developing an effective strategy for your resit is to reflect on your previous performance. Take time to analyse where you went wrong:

• Identify Weak Areas: Review your results and identify specific areas where you struggled. Was it specific skills or assessments? Was it legal knowledge? Try to remember the exams – did you struggle with timings? You have to very honest and reflect on what you think let you down. 
• Compare your results with the criteria: Be sure to review your results against the criteria within each assessment. The individual grading criteria can be found here. Create an overview of in which skills you reached less than the passing mark. 

Seek Feedback

If possible, seek feedback from tutors or peers who are familiar with the SQE2 format. Attempt mock exams and get feedback. They may provide insights that you hadn’t considered and help pinpoint areas for improvement. 

Develop a Comprehensive Study Plan

Set Realistic Goals

Once you’ve identified your weaknesses, it’s time to create a study plan tailored specifically for your needs. Divide your study material into manageable sections based on the subjects assessed in SQE2. Have an emphasis on the areas that let you down – review the overview you made of the skills/subjects that you did not receive passing marks in and make plan to tackle these. If it is a specific legal subject, try to schedule in revision of that area on a daily basis. If it was specific skills that let you down, practice that skill (again if you can on a daily basis). 

Use Varied Study Methods

Different methods work for different people; therefore, consider employing a mix of study techniques:

• Active recall revision: making sure you know the law without looking at your notes is crucial and one of the most important things on the SQE2. Find the active recall revision technique that works best for you – if you are a visual learner, spend time reviewing your notes; if you are more of listener, spend time listening to lectures etc. 
• Practice Papers: Regularly complete mock exams under timed conditions to simulate exam pressure.
• Group Study Sessions: Collaborate with fellow candidates who are also preparing for their resits; discussing topics can enhance understanding.

Mindfulness and Stress Management Techniques

Exam anxiety is common among candidates facing a resit. Incorporating mindfulness techniques into your routine can significantly improve focus and reduce stress:

• Breathing Exercises: Simple breathing exercises before studying or during breaks can help calm nerves.
• Positive Affirmations: Remind yourself of past successes and affirm that you are capable of passing this time around.

Seek Support from Others

Don’t underestimate the power of support from friends, family, or professional networks:

• Study Groups: Join or form study groups with others preparing for their resits; sharing knowledge can alleviate feelings of isolation.
• Professional Mentorships: Consider seeking mentorship from solicitors or other candidates who have successfully navigated their own paths through similar challenges.

Conclusion

Facing a resit after failing the SQE2 may feel daunting but remember that many successful solicitors have been in your shoes. By reflecting on past performances, developing tailored study plans, managing stress effectively, and seeking support from others—you’re setting yourself up for success. Embrace this opportunity as a chance not just to pass an exam but also as a critical step towards becoming a solicitor in England and Wales. With determination and strategic planning, you’ll pass next time! 

If you want to chat about resit strategies, feel free to book some time here. 

If you are looking for additional materials to study with, be sure to check out my SQE2 materials here.