1. Functioning Legal Knowledge and Legal Skills
SQE2 requires a solid foundation in Functioning Legal Knowledge. Although fewer topics are examined compared with SQE1, a deeper understanding is expected. Candidates should revisit SQE1 notes, update them where needed and focus on areas previously found challenging. Strong FLK allows you to concentrate on developing practical skills.
Candidates progressing directly from SQE1 should plan carefully. The FLK list is extensive and may require revisiting topics from scratch. A range of SQE2 resources is available, including study manuals and preparation courses. The SRA website provides the full list of topics under SQE2 assessment specifications.
Legal skills require consistent practice. Divide your revision into oral and written skills and use SRA mock papers to guide your preparation.
Oral assessments
Advocacy requires clear structure, confident delivery and adherence to the 15-minute time limit. Familiarity with court etiquette and how to introduce or challenge material is essential. Interviewing skills benefit from practising standard opening and closing formats and understanding how to prepare an attendance note.
Written assessments
Written tasks require awareness of audience, instructions and tone. Candidates must address legal issues in a structured, concise and clear manner. Practising client letters, forms and other written formats helps build confidence. Assessment criteria for each written skill are available on the SRA website.
2. The Details Matter
SQE2 may test narrow legal points as well as broader principles. Candidates should revise both core concepts and finer details, including steps in legal processes and relevant case law. Some questions may focus on a single remedy or element of an offence. Missing a key legal point can significantly affect marks.
3. Ethics Are Central
Ethical awareness is a major component of SQE2. Candidates must understand their professional responsibilities and limitations. Creating a summary document for each area of law can help identify where ethical issues may arise. The SRA Code of Conduct provides the primary framework for this preparation.
4. Follow Assessment Instructions Carefully
Understanding the task is essential. Candidates should identify who they are addressing, what the task requires and which issues should not be included. Highlighting or noting key points before beginning helps maintain focus and structure. Written assessments also require careful attention to the exam software instructions to avoid timing errors.
5. Know the Technology
The SRA uses a dedicated programme for written exams. A preview version is available on the SRA website. Candidates should familiarise themselves with its layout and limitations. The mock exam function allows practice in timing, FLK application and navigation. This helps identify areas needing improvement.
Candidates unfamiliar with British keyboards should practise typing beforehand.
Conclusion
SQE2 is demanding, but a structured study plan and realistic revision timeline make it manageable. Perfection is not required. Aim for consistent performance across assessments and maintain balance throughout your preparation. Good luck to all candidates sitting SQE2 in July and August 2023.
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