How to revise for the 11+

Effective revision for the 11+ requires a combination of focused study, practice, and time management. Here are some strategies to help you prepare:

1. Create a Study Schedule

Plan ahead: Break down the subjects and topics you need to cover and assign them to specific days or weeks. The earlier you start, the better.
Be consistent: Dedicate regular time each day for revision, even if it’s just 15–45 minutes a day. Consistency is key.
Prioritise weak areas: If there are particular topics you struggle with, focus more time on them, but don’t neglect areas you are already comfortable with.

2. Use Past Papers

Practice past 11+ papers: This is one of the best ways to prepare. Get familiar with the format of the exam, the types of questions, and how long you have to answer each one. We have some practice paper on our website which you are welcome to use: https://www.headstart11plus.co.uk/free-resources.
Timed practice: Practice answering the papers under timed conditions. This helps build your speed and accuracy, which is important for the real test.
Review mistakes: After completing a practice paper, go through any mistakes carefully. Understand why you got the question wrong and make sure you know how to approach similar problems in the future.

3. Use Revision Guides and Online Resources

11+ books: Invest in revision books specifically designed for the 11+. These usually contain explanations, example questions, and practice exercises.
Online resources: Websites like Bond, CGP, or other 11+ preparation sites often offer online tests, quizzes, and interactive lessons. Just ensure you are preparing using GL assessment and not CEM if you are sitting the 11+ in Buckinghamshire.
Watch tutorials: There are plenty of online tutorials (YouTube or educational sites) that explain key concepts in detail. Our YouTube channel has lots of tutorials with English and NVR specifically. https://www.youtube.com/@headstart11plustuition11

4. Focus on Core Subjects

Maths: Ensure you understand basic arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percentages, and algebra. Work on problem-solving skills and time management.
English: Practice reading comprehension, grammar, spelling, and writing short essays. Building vocabulary is also helpful.
Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning: Work on logic puzzles, letter/number sequences, pattern recognition, and spatial reasoning. These sections can be tricky, so practice is essential.

5. Work on Mental Math and Speed

Mental arithmetic: For the maths section, practice doing quick calculations in your head. This will help you save time during the exam.
Speed drills: Time yourself while completing certain sets of questions to get used to answering quickly and efficiently.

6. Take Regular Breaks

Don’t overwork: Studying for long periods without breaks can lead to burnout. Take short breaks (5–10 minutes) every 30–45 minutes of study to recharge your brain.
Relaxation: Include activities like reading, going for a walk, or relaxing with a hobby to balance out your study time.

7. Stay Positive and Stay Healthy

Stay motivated: Keep reminding yourself why you're working hard. Celebrate small wins, like mastering a difficult topic or getting a practice test right.
Sleep, eat, and exercise: Ensure you're taking care of your body. Getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising can boost concentration and memory retention.

8. Test-taking Strategies

Read questions carefully: In the exam, make sure you fully understand what the question is asking before you start solving it.
Skip and return: If you’re stuck on a question, don’t waste time. Move on to the next one and come back later if you have time.
Check your work: If there’s time at the end, go back and double-check your answers.

Good Luck to everyone taking the 11+.

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