SQE Study insights with dr. schatzberger

This week we share a guest post. SQE Study insights with Dr. Schatzberger.

Question 1

What study strategy do you recommend for someone aiming to pass SQE1?

Firstly, have a good look at the SQE/SRA website so that you know the syllabus and format of the examinations inside out.

Then make a decision as to how you would like to study. Long course with a provider, shorter more intensive course, self-study, 1-1, small group provider or larger entity like a University or larger private provider. This all depends on finance and how you prefer to learn.

Then focus on SQE1 and attend your provider’s sessions and/or use the materials available to practice the MCQs. My materials of choice which I use to teach are the books in the Revise SQE series published by Fink – they are the best out there!

Question 2

How do top-performing students you’ve seen manage their time in the months leading up to the exam?

The obvious answer is by attending their prep classes and/or practicing as many MCQs as possible. The key is to learn the strategy not just the law of how to answer these 360 MCQs when you literally have 1 minute 42 seconds to answer each question!

Question 3

What common mistakes do students make in MCQs to avoid?

The most common and understandable mistake is rushing the answers in the exam. Many of the questions have at least three of the five answers which simply cannot be correct, if you read the question [and the answers] carefully.

The common error therefore is misreading the question/answer or ‘snatching’ at an answer from the 5 too quickly. Take your time – the pass mark on the SQE1 is around 62-64% meaning that you only need to get around 220 / 360 correct.

Meaning, take time to answer the questions, that way you will be more likely to pick the correct answers more steadily. I had a student who took this advice, stayed calm, took his time answering the questions. Spotted the must/may; should/could type of questions and passed the exam first time telling me he actually had time to spare at the end of the SQE1 exams!

Question 4

If I start feeling overwhelmed close to exam time, what should I focus on first?

You WILL feel overwhelmed, but the more practice you allow yourself and more MCQs you answer before the exam, the more confidence you will have. Competence and Confidence are inextricably linked. The more practice, the more competence and confidence and the less you will feel overwhelmed

Question 5

What skills are important as a NQ?

Once qualified, use your knowledge gained whilst training for the SQE. There is a reason why writing, drafting, case analysis, research and verbal skills are all tested. These are exactly the skills you need to employ as a NQ solicitor.

One thing I would add that no text book ever teaches you. That is that your client, civil or criminal, is not always going to be honest with you.

As such don’t be afraid to dig and probe and ask tricky uncomfortable questions to your client. If you don’t the other side will and that is a recipe for disaster!

Also, NEVER forget your professional conduct rules and ethics. It is not always what you do, but the way you do it that really matters.

Thank you, Dr. Schatzberger 🙏

If you are looking for study resources check out Top Resources For Aspiring Solicitors.