We asked a number of our trainees to share their top tips for those who are taking the FE-1 exams this year. Jenny Kelehan, a trainee currently in our Construction, Infrastructure and Utilities team shares her tips.
Be strategic about what exams you take
If sitting more than one exam at a time, be strategic about which exam subjects you choose. Try to balance content-heavy subjects, like Constitutional Law and European Union Law, with lighter subjects like Criminal Law and Contract Law.
Make a study plan
Make a realistic study plan and try to stick to it. Give yourself enough time for each subject. The rule of thumb often quoted is two weeks per subject, but most people would give a little longer to allow for revision. In your plan, allow time for both the preparation of notes and for revision.
Less is more
Use examiners’ reports and past exam papers to assess what topics are popular with examiners. There is no need to cover every topic of every subject. You are better off selecting slightly fewer topics and knowing them well, than covering every chapter and only having a surface level grasp of the content.
Utilise examiners’ reports
Certain examiners prepare detailed reports for each exam sitting. These are very useful in understanding what will be expected in your exam answers. Criminal Law reports are particularly helpful.
Mind yourself
Don’t let the exams take over your life. You will perform best when you are looking after yourself. Take lots of breaks, eat well and get enough sleep. Make sure to schedule activities into each day that allow you to take meaningful, intentional breaks from study. The exams are a marathon, not a sprint!
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