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.

The Mindset Framework That Will Help You Smash the SQE2

  Preparing for the SQE2 is no small feat. It’s a rigorous assessment of your ability to apply legal knowledge to real-life tasks, from client interviews to advocacy and legal writing. But success isn’t just about cramming facts — it’s about having the right SQE2 mindset and approach. If you’re asking how to pass SQE2, start here: learn to think like a solicitor. The mindset framework below will help you tackle every SQE2 task with confidence and clarity. Step 1: Identify the Legal Issue In every SQE2 oral or written assessment, your first job is to spot what the legal issue actually is. That means not just reacting to what the client says, but digging beneath the surface. Example: If a client asks whether they can access land through a neighbouring property, that’s not just a property question — it’s about easements. What to Remember: Legal issues are often hidden behind everyday language. Your role is to translate real-world problems into legal categories. Issue spotting sets the foundation for everything that follows — if you miss it, the rest won’t matter. Step 2: Explain the Law Once you’ve identified the issue, you need to clearly explain the relevant legal rules or tests. This is where many SQE2 candidates lose marks — by rushing into the application without demonstrating they actually understand the law. Example: In an easement question, explain all possible ways one can arise such as: Express grant Implied easement Necessity Prescription (long use) and include explanations for each method. Don’t assume the examiner knows what you mean — spell it out clearly and logically. What to Remember: Write or speak as if you’re explaining the law to a client. Clarity is more important than complexity. This is where you prove your Foundational Legal Knowledge (FLK) as required by the SRA (see specification here) — don’t skip it. Step 3: Apply and Advise Now it’s time to apply the law to the scenario and advise the client. This is your chance to show real problem-solving — not just reciting rules, but using them. Example: “Based on what you’ve told me, there may be an implied easement here due to XYZ. However, we’d need to confirm XYZ to confirm this.” What to Remember: Your goal is to help the client understand their position and options. Be specific, not vague — apply the actual legal test to the facts. Always focus on resolving the client’s issue, not just showing off what you know. Supporting Your SQE2 Mindset Mastering these three steps — Identify, Explain, Apply — is the core of a winning SQE2 approach. But to really smash the exam, you also need to develop the right mindset around your preparation: ✔️ Adopt a Growth Mindset Believe that your legal skills can improve with effort and feedback. Every mock exam is an opportunity to grow — not a verdict on your ability. ✔️ Be Strategic with Your Study Create a balanced study schedule that mixes knowledge revision, practice tasks, and timed assessments. Use active recall and mock simulations to mirror exam conditions. ✔️ Use Support Networks Don’t do it alone. Join SQE2 study groups, get feedback from tutors, and use high-quality prep materials that reinforce this mindset-driven approach. Final Thoughts: How to Pass SQE2 with Confidence If you’ve been wondering how to pass SQE2, start by approaching each mock question by focusing on these three essential habits: Spot the legal issue. Clearly explain the relevant law. Apply it to the client’s facts and offer practical advice. This mindset framework isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. It’s how real solicitors think, and it’s exactly what the SQE2 is testing. Combine this approach with disciplined preparation, and you’ll be well on your way to smashing the exam. For additional materials to support your SQE2 studies, check out my materials here.