SQE2 Written Skills Help sheet
- lawmaterevision
- Jul 30
- 4 min read
SQE2 written assessments are designed to test your practical legal skills. The setup is similar to SQE1 in that you will be in a Pearson Vue test centre. You will tackle two questions back-to-back, have a 15-minute break, and then complete the final two. To help you prepare, here is a breakdown of strategies for each of the written skills exams.
Legal Research
A common theme across all written skills is the importance of spending time reading and understanding the facts to identify the questions you need to answer. Once you know what you are looking for, you can either write the issues into the template on the screen or note them on the whiteboard provided.
When you begin your research, it is a good idea to start with the secondary sources to help you narrow down your search. Make sure to look through all the sources before you start writing, as new information could change your answer.
While you cannot highlight text, you can draw lines on the sources to help you quickly find key information. You can also use the whiteboard to briefly note why a source is relevant, making it easier to revisit.
For formatting, while the SRA has stated that it does not matter, using CTRL+V+SHIFT will paste the text in the same font and size you are using. You can also use CTRL+F to search for specific information.
I recommend pasting the important points you find directly into your template under the corresponding questions. When it comes to writing your answer, focus on addressing the issues first, and then write your introduction and conclusion. For each issue, summarise the relevant information in 2-3 sentences and then apply the facts to the law. This application is the most important part.
Your introduction can be a simple summary of what you were asked to research, for example: "As requested, I have researched [client's] position with respect to a passing off action and the steps it can take to protect itself." Your conclusion should summarise your advice and outline any next steps.
Legal Drafting
Legal drafting can be one of the more daunting skills as there are many different documents you could be asked to draft, and you might even be tested on a document you have never seen before.
A great piece of advice from Dan Hill is to focus not on the drafting itself, but on identifying the relevant legal process being tested. For example:
If you are asked to draft board minutes and resolutions, you are being tested on your knowledge of the company decision-making process set out in the Companies Act.
If you are asked to draft an application to exclude evidence in a criminal case, you are being tested on the grounds for excluding evidence.
If you are asked to draft a particulars of claim, you are being tested on what is included in a particulars of claim.
By focusing on the underlying legal process, you can approach any drafting task with a clear and structured methodology.
Case and Matter Analysis (CMA)
There is some debate about how to structure a CMA answer. Some people write it as a report attached to an email, while others write it as an email itself, including an introduction. You can use either structure, but for this guide, we will focus on including an introduction.
I have completed too many questions where I have read it, identified some relevant legal knowledge and then gone straight into writing as I am full of ideas. The problem with this approach is that I either run out of steam or I realise the structure (or lack thereof) does not make sense. I therefore think it is crucial to plan out your answer, even if it is very brief. As soon as I have finished reading the question and accompanying documents I would put the legal questions I intend to address in the template and then jot down some brief points I want to discuss. This helps to keep a logical structure throughout and ensures I don’t forget any points.
When I start writing I would again first focus on the issues before my intro or conclusion. I would explain the relevant law under each subheading in 2-3 sentences before moving onto to apply the facts. After I have addressed all of the points I would write the conclusion which suggests any next steps or determines which option is best. It is important to note that CMA questions want you to provide some commercial or practical advice, which could be something like:
A simple cost/benefit analysis;
Managing a client's expectations as to the consequences of taking a particular step; or
Considering whether client should negotiate and if so with what strategy.
I would then write a brief introduction summarising the facts.
Legal Writing
The approach to legal writing is very similar to the approach for CMA. It is essential to create a brief plan before you start answering the question. Then, address the issues by summarising the law in a way that the client can understand.
After you have addressed the main issues, you can write your introduction and conclusion. A conclusion is not always necessary, but I liked to include it when I had time as a ‘next steps’ section, even if it was something small like we will draft a written resolution, as it shows greater application. It is also important to check if you are writing the letter on someone's behalf.
Conclusion
Ultimately, success in the SQE2 written exams hinges not just on what you know, but how you apply it. By embracing a structured approach, planning your answers, and consistently focusing on the practical application of the law to your client's needs, you can build the confidence to excel. Stay focused, trust your preparation, and you will be well on your way to success.
If you want to put these tips into practice, check out our free SQE2 sample questions and SQE2 mock exam. For more updates, tips, and free questions, be sure to join our newsletter.
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