5 Productivity Hacks Every SQE1 Student Should Know

Preparing for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is no small feat. As a relatively new exam, the SQE is still evolving, which means students like you are navigating uncharted waters. The SQE1, in particular, covers a vast amount of material, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information. However, while the exam format is new and challenging, there are numerous ways to boost your productivity and organisation, giving you a better shot at success.

It’s important to remember that what works for one student may not work for another. We all have different learning styles and preferences. But don’t shy away from trying new methods or being creative in your approach to this exam. The key is to find what works for you and stick with it. In this post, I’m going to share five productivity hacks that can help you supercharge your SQE1 preparation and increase your chances of passing with flying colours.

1. Create a Structured Study Plan with Milestones

One of the most crucial steps in preparing for SQE1 is creating a structured study plan. The SQE1 assesses your knowledge across a broad range of legal topics, so it’s essential to approach your studies with a clear plan in mind.

How to Get Started:

• Understand the Exam: Begin by thoroughly researching the SQE1. Take the time to understand the structure of the exam, the topics covered in FLK1 and FLK2, and the types of questions you will face. The SQE1 is all about Functioning Legal Knowledge, so make sure you have a detailed grasp of what each topic entails.

• Detailed Breakdown: Once you have a solid understanding of the exam, break down each subject and topic in detail. Create a comprehensive list of everything that needs to be covered, including subtopics and specific areas of law. For instance, in Contract Law, make sure you have a clear outline of each key concept, case, and statutory provision you need to study.

• Work Backwards: Start with your exam date and work backward. Calculate how much time you have left and allocate specific periods for each topic. Be realistic about how long each study session will take and set clear milestones. For example, you might aim to complete all readings for FLK1 in the first two months, followed by practice questions and revisions.

• Weekly Plans: Break down your overall study plan into weekly goals. Each week, focus on a particular topic or set of topics, and make sure to include time for revision and practice questions. A well-structured weekly plan will help you stay on track and prevent last-minute cramming.

Why It Works:

The key to success in SQE1 is being organised and disciplined. A structured study plan with clear milestones ensures that you cover all necessary material in a systematic way, leaving no topic unaddressed. This approach not only keeps you on track but also helps reduce stress as you approach the exam date.

2. Organise Your SQE1 Study Materials with Notion

If you’re still juggling paper notes, textbooks, and countless files on your computer, it’s time to streamline your study process. Notion is a powerful tool that can transform your SQE1 preparation by helping you stay organised and focused.

How to Get Started:

• Set Up Your Workspace: Create a dedicated Notion workspace for your SQE1 prep. This could include separate pages for each FLK1 and FLK2 subject, where you can organise your notes, case summaries, statutory provisions, and revision materials.

• Master Dashboard: Use Notion’s customisable dashboards to create a master overview of your study progress. Include a calendar with your study schedule, to-do lists, and a tracker for each subject to monitor your progress. You can even add a countdown timer to keep track of the days remaining until your exam.

• Switch from Paper to Digital: Notion allows you to go fully digital, eliminating the need for physical notes. You can embed PDFs, videos, and other resources directly into your Notion pages, making it easier to access everything you need in one place.

• Custom Templates: If you’re new to Notion, consider using pre-made templates like The Legal Blueprint’s SQE1 Notion Template. This template is specifically designed to help law students organise their studies efficiently, providing a ready-to-use framework that you can customise to your needs.

Why It Works:

Notion is more than just a note-taking app—it’s a comprehensive organisational tool that can declutter your study process and improve your focus. By having all your study materials in one place, you can streamline your workflow, stay on top of your schedule, and reduce the mental clutter that often comes with exam preparation.

Pro Tip:

Sign up for Notion for FREE using this link to start organising your SQE1 preparation. If you want to take it a step further, check out The Legal Blueprint’s SQE1 Notion Template here for inspiration or to purchase a ready-made solution.

3. Start Practicing Multiple Choice Questions Early On

One of the most effective ways to prepare for the SQE1 is by practicing multiple-choice questions (MCQs) early and often. The SQE1 is heavily focused on MCQs, so getting comfortable with this format is crucial.

How to Get Started:

• Start Early: Don’t wait until the final weeks before the exam to start practicing MCQs. Begin incorporating them into your study routine as soon as possible. This will help reinforce your understanding of the material and highlight any areas where you need further study.

• Use Practice Questions to Review: After completing a topic, test your knowledge by doing practice questions related to that subject. This not only helps you apply what you’ve learned but also gives you insight into the types of questions you might encounter on the exam.

• Track Your Progress: Use a Notion tracker or another method to keep track of the questions you’ve answered and your scores. This will allow you to see patterns in your strengths and weaknesses and adjust your study plan accordingly.

• Simulate Exam Conditions: As you get closer to the exam date, start doing timed practice sessions that mimic the actual exam conditions. This will help you build stamina and get used to managing your time effectively during the exam.

Why It Works:

Practicing MCQs is one of the best ways to prepare for the SQE1 because it allows you to test your knowledge in the same format as the exam. This not only builds your confidence but also helps you develop the critical thinking skills needed to succeed.

4. Utilise Different Methods of Revision

Revision is not a one-size-fits-all process. Different topics may require different approaches, and it’s important to find the revision methods that work best for you. By utilising a variety of techniques, you can ensure that you cover all the material effectively.

How to Get Started:

• Mix It Up: Start with a variety of revision methods to see what works best for you. This could include reading textbook chapters, summarising notes on revision cards, creating mind maps, or even teaching the material out loud to yourself or a study group.

• Active Learning: Engage in active learning techniques such as self-quizzing, flashcards, and teaching concepts to others. These methods are more effective than passive revision (like simply re-reading notes) because they require you to actively engage with the material.

• Mind Maps and Diagrams: For visual learners, creating mind maps or diagrams can be an effective way to connect different concepts and see the bigger picture. This method is particularly useful for complex topics with many interrelated parts.

• Audio and Visual Aids: If you’re an auditory or visual learner, consider using audio recordings of your notes or watching video lectures. You can also try recording yourself explaining concepts and then listening to the recordings as part of your revision.

• Stick to What Works: Once you’ve experimented with different methods, settle on the ones that work best for you. It’s important to be consistent and disciplined in your revision, so don’t keep switching methods once you’ve found your groove.

Why It Works:

Using a variety of revision methods keeps your study sessions fresh and engaging, preventing burnout. It also ensures that you’re covering all the material from different angles, which can help reinforce your understanding and retention.

5. Prioritise Mental Preparation and Self-Confidence

While it’s easy to focus solely on the academic aspects of SQE1 preparation, mental preparation is just as important. Developing a positive mindset and building your self-confidence can make a huge difference on exam day.

How to Get Started:

• Visualise Success: Take time each day to visualise yourself successfully completing the exam. Imagine yourself walking into the exam room, feeling confident, calm, and prepared. Visualisation can help reduce anxiety and build confidence.

• Positive Affirmations: Incorporate positive affirmations into your daily routine. Remind yourself of your strengths, the hard work you’ve put in, and your ability to succeed.

• Practice Relaxation Techniques: Stress management is crucial during exam preparation. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness can help you stay calm and focused. Consider incorporating these practices into your study routine.

• Simulate Exam Day: As the exam approaches, simulate the experience as closely as possible. This includes setting up a quiet study space, timing yourself as you would during the exam, and visualising the entire process from start to finish.

• Focus on the Big Picture: Keep the end goal in mind—passing the SQE1 and moving closer to your career as a solicitor. This can help you stay motivated and maintain a positive attitude throughout your preparation.

Why It Works:

Mental preparation helps you approach the SQE1 with confidence and reduces the likelihood of anxiety affecting your performance. By focusing on your mental state, you can ensure that you’re in the best possible condition to succeed on exam day.

Preparing for the SQE1 can be a daunting task, but with the right productivity hacks, you can streamline your study process and boost your chances of success. By creating a structured study plan, organising your materials with Notion, practicing multiple-choice questions early, utilising different revision methods, and prioritising your mental preparation, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the exam with confidence.

Remember, the key to success lies in finding what works best for you and staying disciplined in your approach. The journey to becoming a solicitor is challenging, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can overcome any obstacle and achieve your goals.

For more tips on SQE preparation and law student productivity hacks, be sure to explore our blog further. If you’re ready to take your organisation to the next level, check out The Legal Blueprint’s SQE1 Notion Template to start streamlining your study process today.

Get Started with Notion: Sign up here and take the first step towards an organised and productive SQE1 preparation journey!