How Do I Prepare for the SQE2?
Preparing for SQE2 is a crucial step toward qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales. Unlike SQE1, which tests legal knowledge through multiple-choice questions, SQE2 focuses on practical legal skills, as well as legal knowledge, requiring candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply the law in a variety of scenarios. If you’ve been wondering, “How do I prepare for the SQE2?”, this guide will walk you through the best SQE2 revision advice, key strategies, and essential resources to help you succeed.
Understanding SQE2
The SQE2 exam assesses candidates on practical legal skills across core practice areas, including:
• Client Interviewing & Attendance Note Writing
• Advocacy
• Legal Writing & Drafting
• Legal Research
• Case & Matter Analysis
These skills are tested in criminal litigation, dispute resolution, business, property, and wills & probate. The exam is designed to evaluate how well you perform legal tasks in professional settings—making preparation both knowledge-based and skill-focused.
How Do I Prepare for the SQE2? Key Steps for Success
1. Enrol in a Reputable SQE2 Prep Course
One of the most effective ways to prepare for SQE2 is by enrolling in a structured SQE2 prep course. A good course will:
✔ Cover all assessment areas in a structured way.
✔ Provide mock exams and simulated exercises to help you practice.
✔ Offer 1:1 feedback from legal professionals.
When choosing a course, consider factors like teaching methods, reviews, materials offered and of course, cost to ensure it aligns with your study needs.
2. Create a Structured Study Plan
SQE2 requires legal knowledge as well as practical skill development, so a strategic study plan is essential. Break down your preparation into dedicated study periods:
🗓 Month 1 – Understand what is required of each assessment and review the marking criteria from the SRA website; go through the functioning legal knowledge (FLK) ensuring you spend equal amounts of time on each subject – make notes, read books, watch lectures – whatever you need to do to start absorbing the legal knowledge; start practicing mock exams
🗓 Month 2 – Focus on active recall revision and mock exams.
🗓 Month 3 – Determine where your gaps remain, continue with active recall revision and mock exams.
Consistency is key—stick to your study schedule to ensure you cover all areas before exam day. I would recommend studying around 10-15 hours per week for at least 3 months.
3. Use Active Recall and Practice Techniques
A major mistake candidates make is passive studying—simply reading notes isn’t enough. Instead, focus on active recall and practical exercises to cement your knowledge:
🧠 Active Recall – Read through your notes, then explain key concepts aloud without looking. Afterwards, check what you got right or missed.
🎭 Mock Assessments – Simulate SQE2 exam tasks under timed conditions to develop a natural, structured response style.
🎤 Self-Record Oral Practice – Record yourself performing an interview or advocacy exercise, then watch and critique your performance.
These techniques will help you retain information better and improve your confidence.
4. Get Feedback and Improve
SQE2 isn’t just about knowing the law—it’s about demonstrating competency at the required standard. Seeking feedback is crucial for improvement:
• Peer Review – Practice with fellow candidates and exchange feedback.
• Tutor Feedback – If enrolled in an SQE2 prep course or other resource, take advantage of reviews of your mock performances.
• Self-Assessment – Record and review your client interviews or advocacy exercises to identify areas for refinement.
Essential SQE2 Revision Resources
Beyond a SQE2 prep course, there are plenty of additional resources that can enhance your preparation:
📚 Legal Textbooks & Revision Notes/Books – Strengthen your legal knowledge and can be excellent resources for active recall purposes.
📂 Sample Exam Papers & Mock Questions – Familiarise yourself with SQE2 exam formats and obtain as many questions as you can from different providers – the more different question styles you are exposed to, the more prepared you will be.
🌍 Online Study Groups & Forums – Join SQE2 discussion groups to share insights and revision strategies.
Final Thoughts: How to Prepare for SQE2 with Confidence
So, how do I prepare for the SQE2? The key lies in structured preparation, active learning, and plenty of practice. Follow these steps to give yourself the best chance of success:
✅ Enrol (if you can) in an SQE2 prep course for expert guidance.
✅ Create a clear study plan that covers all subjects and skills.
✅ Use active recall & mock assessments to reinforce learning.
✅ Seek feedback and make continuous improvements.
With commitment, practice, and the right resources, you can approach SQE2 with confidence and increase your chances of passing on your first attempt. Good luck! 🚀
For further SQE2 resources, click here.