Ever wondered what sets successful SQE2 candidates apart? It’s not necessarily their legal background, full-time availability, or how many prep resources they have. In fact, many top performers are juggling jobs, families, and imposter syndrome—just like everyone else.
What makes the difference is how they approach their SQE2 preparation. After working with hundreds of students, I’ve noticed clear patterns in those who consistently perform well. If you’re wondering how to improve your own study habits, here are the key behaviours the best candidates all have in common.
1. They Have a Plan—and They Stick to It
SQE2 isn’t something you can “wing.” The top candidates create a clear study schedule, break down tasks week by week, and diarise key dates. They don’t rely on last-minute cramming or vague to-do lists—they treat SQE2 prep like a job.
More importantly, they follow through. If their timetable says “mock interview on Wednesday,” they don’t let it slip. If they’ve set aside Sunday morning for research practice, it gets done.
Why it matters: Structure helps avoid overwhelm and builds momentum. By showing up consistently, even in short sessions, they make steady progress and reduce exam stress.
2. They Use Active Recall (Not Just Passive Reading)
The best SQE2 candidates don’t just highlight notes or rewatch prep videos on loop. They use active recall to test themselves, reinforce memory, and identify gaps.
For example:
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Reading through notes, then closing the page and explaining the concept aloud.
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Creating flashcards with questions like “What are the different ways an easement can arise?”
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Practising legal explanations out loud as if speaking to a client.
They know the exam isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about being able to retrieve and apply knowledge under pressure.
3. They Deeply Understand the Content and
the Exam Structure
Top SQE2 performers don’t just learn the law—they study how the assessment itself works. They understand how long each station lasts, what examiners are looking for, and how marks are awarded.
For each assessment type—advocacy, interviewing, legal writing, etc.—they know:
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The expected structure
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The typical timing breakdown
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The skills they’re being tested on
They prepare like solicitors, not students. That means focusing on clarity, communication, and client-focused thinking—rather than cramming endless legal theory.
4. They Find Things Out for Themselves
This might sound simple, but it’s huge: the most successful students actively look for answers before asking.
If they’re unsure of a particular legal topic or how an assessment works, they’ll first for example:
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Re-read the assessment spec
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Look at sample answers
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Watch walkthrough videos
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Google it
This habit of independent problem-solving is one of the clearest indicators of exam success. Why? Because it builds resilience and mirrors real solicitor behaviour—figuring things out for yourself before turning to others.
That’s not to say they never ask for help (they do!)—but when they do, it’s usually after they’ve made a genuine attempt to understand something themselves.
Final Thoughts: SQE2 Success Is Built on Habits
There’s no magic formula for passing SQE2. But if you adopt even a few of these habits, you’ll be putting yourself in the best possible position to succeed:
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Plan your time and follow through
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Use active recall to learn smarter
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Study the exam structure—not just the law
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Take ownership of your learning
The SQE2 exam is as much about mindset and discipline as it is about legal knowledge. The top candidates know that—now you do too.