Preparing for the SQE2 can feel like navigating a maze. With so many skills to master and so much legal knowledge to absorb, it’s easy to fall into habits that actually slow your progress.
Whether you’re just starting your SQE2 revision or deep into practice, avoiding common mistakes will give you a serious advantage. In this post, we’ll cover the top 10 SQE2 preparation mistakes candidates make—and, more importantly, how you can avoid them.
1. Starting Without a Clear Plan
Many candidates jump into reading or doing mocks randomly. This leads to gaps in preparation and last-minute panic.
How to Avoid It:
Create a structured study plan covering all SQE2 subjects and assessment types. Be sure to revise each subject (Wills, Criminal, Dispute, Property, Business) at least once per week. Also, ensure you are practicing mocks at least weekly, and towards the end daily.
Break your timetable into weekly goals, and stick to them.
2. Relying Only on Passive Reading
Just reading notes or watching videos isn’t enough. SQE2 is about applying knowledge, not memorising.
How to Avoid It:
Use active learning strategies:
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Practice explaining concepts aloud
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Do timed mock exercises
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Use flashcards and active recall techniques
3. Ignoring the Marking Criteria
Many candidates don’t study the assessment specification in detail. As a result, their answers do not hit all the points that the examiners are looking for to award marks.
How to Avoid It:
Read the SRA SQE2 assessment specification on the SRA page carefully. Understand exactly how each skill is assessed and what the examiners look for.
4. Skipping Legal Explanations
One of the most common mistakes in SQE2 mocks is jumping straight to advice without explaining the relevant law first.
How to Avoid It:
Follow this golden sequence in most assessment types:
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Identify the legal issue
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Explain the relevant law and test
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Apply the law to the facts
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Advise clearly
This structure shows you have the depth of understanding the exam demands.
5. Not Practising Under Timed Conditions
Completing tasks slowly at your own pace won’t prepare you for real exam pressure.
How to Avoid It:
Always set a timer when you practise mocks. Simulating exam conditions builds speed, confidence, and resilience.
6. Avoiding Feedback
Many candidates avoid getting feedback because it feels uncomfortable. But feedback is where you learn the most.
How to Avoid It:
Share your mock answers with tutors or peers. Reflect honestly and turn feedback into action points.
7. Forgetting to Practise Oral Skills
Some candidates focus entirely on written tasks, neglecting advocacy and interviews.
How to Avoid It:
Regularly rehearse:
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Advocacy mocks aloud
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Client interviews with a study partner
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Recording yourself to spot habits and improve clarity
8. Letting Nerves Take Over
SQE2 can feel overwhelming. Anxiety often leads to blank minds and rushed answers.
How to Avoid It:
Practise mindfulness or breathing techniques to calm your nerves. Visualise yourself handling each assessment confidently.
9. Not Using Realistic Scenarios
Practising with unrealistic or overly simple examples won’t prepare you for the complexity of real SQE2 tasks.
How to Avoid It:
Use high-quality practice materials that mirror the format and difficulty of real assessments.
10. Leaving Revision Too Late
Cramming in the final weeks rarely works. SQE2 requires consistent practice over time.
How to Avoid It:
Start early. Aim to finish the bulk of your FLK revision at least 4 weeks before the exam, leaving time for mocks and targeted practice.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these SQE2 preparation mistakes can make the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling in control. Remember:
✅ Be strategic.
✅ Use active learning.
✅ Practise regularly under exam conditions.
✅ Seek feedback.
✅ Look after your mindset.
With the right approach, you’ll give yourself the best chance of passing SQE2 confidently and moving one step closer to qualifying as a solicitor.
Good luck—you’ve got this!
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