Why You’re Struggling with SQE2 Mocks (And How to Fix It)

  If you’ve been practicing SQE2 mocks and still feel like you’re getting nowhere — you’re not alone. Mock exams are one of the most valuable tools for SQE2 prep, yet so many candidates struggle to get the results they want, even after several attempts. In this blog post, we’re diving into why SQE2 mocks feel so difficult, the most common mistakes students make, and — most importantly — how to fix them so you can make real progress before exam day.   Why SQE2 Mocks Feel So Hard Mock exams are meant to replicate exam conditions — time pressure, unfamiliar scenarios, and the challenge of applying legal knowledge practically. But unlike academic essays or multiple-choice tests, SQE2 mocks test you like a solicitor, not a student. That means they don’t just assess whether you “know stuff.” They assess whether you can: Spot legal issues under pressure Structure your answer logically Explain the law clearly Apply it to messy, real-life facts Communicate advice in a client-friendly way If you’re not used to working this way, mocks will feel uncomfortable at first — and that’s okay. The key is learning from them.   5 Common Mistakes in SQE2 Mocks   1. Skipping Structure So many candidates dive into writing or speaking without using a solid structure. For example: No introduction in advocacy No subheadings in writing tasks Jumping straight to advice in the interview Fix it: Every SQE2 task type has an expected structure. Use frameworks like: Advocacy: Introduction – Facts – Law – Application – Conclusion Writing: Heading – Intro – Go through each Issue, including a Legal Explanation and Advice – Conclusion Interview: Intro – Background – Open questions – Issue-by-issue – Summary – Next steps   2. Weak Legal Explanations SQE2 mocks often reveal a huge gap: knowing the law vs. explaining the law. Candidates skip over the legal test and jump to advice. Fix it: In every task, you need to explain the legal rule clearly — especially in writing. For example, if the issue is an easement, set out all the possible types, define each briefly, and only then apply it.   3. Not Applying the Law Properly Some answers just summarise the facts and list the law, but never connect the two. That’s a huge missed opportunity. Fix it: After stating the law, go back to the scenario and apply it clearly. Use phrases like: “In this case, the requirement of X is likely satisfied because…” “This suggests that the client may have a claim under…” This is where you score most of your marks — don’t rush this part.   4. Failing to Proofread or Review SQE2 mocks, especially writing tasks, often contain sloppy grammar, unclear sentences, or missing conclusions — not because the student didn’t know the answer, but because they didn’t leave time to review. Fix it: In writing tasks, always leave 5 minutes at the end to proofread. In interviews or advocacy, practice recording yourself and reviewing your performance.   5. Not Reflecting After the Mock Doing mock after mock without reflection is like going to the gym and lifting weights with the wrong technique. You won’t improve — and might reinforce bad habits. Fix it: After every mock, ask: What went well? Where did I lose marks? Did I follow a structure? Did I explain and apply the law properly? Does my answer reflect the criteria that I would be marked agains? Better yet — ask for feedback. Peer or tutor feedback is a shortcut to seeing blind spots.     How to Use SQE2 Mocks Properly To get the most out of your SQE2 mock exams, use them strategically — not just as a performance test, but as a learning tool. ✅ Simulate real exam conditions — no notes, time limits, no distractions. ✅ Use the same templates/structures you plan to use on exam day. ✅ Track your progress — what you’re improving on and what still needs work. ✅ Mix it up — try different subjects and assessment types to stay flexible. ✅ Don’t panic if you do badly — it’s practice. Better to learn now than in the real exam.   Final Thoughts: Your Struggles Mean You’re Learning If SQE2 mocks are making you sweat — good. That means you’re doing the hard work of getting exam-ready. Mocks aren’t supposed to feel easy. They’re supposed to reveal what you still need to work on, and give you a chance to fix it in time. Use them wisely, reflect deeply, and keep improving. Your future solicitor self will thank you. If you are looking for more mocks to practice with, be sure to check out my popular mocks here.