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Trainee Solicitors at Michelmores complete the SQE before starting their training contract, whilst Graduate Solicitor Apprentices at Michelmores complete the SQE alongside their training throughout the course of their apprenticeship.
In this article, the second in the ‘how to ace the SQE’ mini-series (see here for part 1), I outline my top tips to ace SQE2.
What is SQE2?
SQE2 assesses candidates’ practical legal skills – client interviewing, attendance note/legal analysis, advocacy, case and matter analysis, legal research, legal writing and legal drafting – across 16 scenario-based assessments. The written assessments take place over three consecutive days, followed by two consecutive days of oral assessments (see here for further details on the practicalities of the exam).
Tip 1 – Practice makes perfect
There are a wide range of different skills to master for SQE2. Here are my top tips for revision:
- Start by practising on an ‘open book’ basis, i.e. without looking at your notes. This will enable you to focus on developing your practical legal skills.
- Learn a ‘standard’ opening for your interview and advocacy assessments. This will enable you to get off to a strong start in the exam, easing your nerves and instilling confidence in the examiner.
- Record yourself when preparing for the advocacy assessment. It is helpful to be able to review your presentation style, in particular your body language, pace and tone.
- Complete a full mock exam. The SRA have published a number of sample questions (see here).
Tip 2 – Keep on top of your SQE1 knowledge
Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK) accounts for 50% of your mark in SQE2. It is therefore vital that you keep on top of your SQE1 knowledge, whilst learning the new skills required to tackle the SQE2 exam. In truth, this can be a challenging balancing act. I would suggest scheduling some time at the end of each day to recap a section of the SQE1 syllabus. In addition, remember to keep an eye out for updates in the law. The cut-off date for the law upon which candidates are examined in the SQE is four calendar months prior to the date of the first assessment in an assessment window.
Tip 3 – Familiarise yourself with the specification
It is important to familiarise yourself with the SQE2 specification (see here) so that you can tailor your revision accordingly. Only certain areas of FLK are assessed for each skill. Furthermore, some areas of FLK are not examined at all in SQE2.
Concluding thoughts
The SQE is undoubtedly a difficult challenge, but with effective preparation you will be able to confidently tackle (and pass) the exam.
Good luck!