If you are preparing for the SQE1, one of the most common questions is: “How should I structure my revision?”
With such a vast syllabus covering multiple areas of law, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Many candidates either try to cover everything at once or focus too heavily on one subject, both of which can lead to inefficient preparation and poor performance.
A well-structured revision plan is essential for success in SQE1. It allows you to cover the syllabus systematically, reinforce your knowledge, and develop the exam technique needed to perform under pressure.
The SQE1 assesses functioning legal knowledge across two exams: FLK1 and FLK2. Together, they cover a wide range of subjects, including contract, tort, business law, dispute resolution, property law, criminal law, trusts, and more. The challenge lies not only in understanding these topics but in applying them effectively within single best answer questions.
The first step in building an effective revision plan is understanding how the exam works. SQE1 is not about memorising every detail. Instead, it tests your ability to apply legal principles in realistic scenarios. This means your revision must focus on both knowledge and application.
A strong revision plan typically consists of three phases: foundation, practice, and refinement.
In the foundation phase, your goal is to build a solid understanding of the core topics. This involves reviewing key legal principles, understanding how they operate in practice, and identifying the most commonly tested areas.
However, it is important not to spend too long in this phase. Many candidates fall into the trap of trying to perfect their knowledge before attempting questions. In reality, you should begin practising single best answer questions as early as possible.
The practice phase is where real progress is made. This is the stage where you apply your knowledge to exam-style questions and start developing your exam technique. Regular practice helps you recognise patterns, improve your speed, and become familiar with the types of scenarios you will encounter in the exam.
During this phase, it is essential to review your answers carefully. Understanding why an answer is correct or incorrect is far more valuable than simply completing a large number of questions.
The final phase is refinement. As the exam approaches, your focus should shift towards improving accuracy, managing time effectively, and addressing any remaining weaknesses. This is also the stage where mock exams become particularly important.
A common question is how much time to allocate to each subject. While it is important to cover all areas, not all topics are equally weighted. Focusing on high-yield topics—those that appear frequently in the exam—can significantly improve your efficiency.
For example, contract law, tort, and property law are consistently tested areas. However, ethics and professional conduct are integrated across all subjects, so they should be incorporated into your revision throughout.
Time management is another critical aspect of your revision plan. Many candidates underestimate the importance of practising under timed conditions. Given the strict time limits in the exam, it is essential to develop the ability to answer questions quickly and accurately.
A practical approach is to set aside dedicated time for timed practice sessions. This not only improves your speed but also helps you build the stamina required for the exam.
Consistency is key. Studying for short, focused periods each day is more effective than irregular, intensive sessions. A typical study plan might involve reviewing one topic in the morning, practising questions in the afternoon, and reviewing mistakes in the evening.
Another important element of an effective revision plan is tracking your progress. Keeping a record of your performance across different topics can help you identify areas of weakness and adjust your study plan accordingly.
For example, if you consistently struggle with land law questions, you may need to allocate more time to that subject. Similarly, if you perform well in a particular area, you can reduce the time spent on it and focus on other topics.
It is also important to incorporate regular revision sessions. Revisiting topics ensures that you retain information over time and prevents earlier material from being forgotten.
Many candidates also benefit from creating summaries or revision notes. However, these should be concise and focused on key principles rather than detailed explanations. The goal is to create a quick reference that can be reviewed easily.
Another effective strategy is to simulate exam conditions through mock exams. This allows you to practise managing your time, maintaining concentration, and applying your knowledge under pressure.
Mock exams also provide valuable feedback on your performance. By analysing your results, you can identify patterns in your mistakes and refine your approach.
It is important to approach SQE1 preparation with the right mindset. The exam is designed to be challenging, and it is normal to find some questions difficult. The key is to remain consistent, learn from your mistakes, and continue improving.
Avoid comparing your progress to others. Everyone’s learning pace is different, and focusing on your own progress is more productive.
Finally, remember that balance is essential. While it is important to dedicate time to your studies, taking regular breaks and maintaining a healthy routine can improve your overall performance.
In conclusion, a well-structured revision plan is one of the most important factors in passing SQE1. By combining a strong foundation of legal knowledge with consistent practice and effective exam technique, you can maximise your chances of success.
