How to Pass the 11 Plus (11+) Exam: The Ultimate Guide for Parents and Students
Preparing for the 11 Plus exam can be a significant milestone in your child's educational journey, and understanding the ins and outs is essential. This exam is an important gateway to selective secondary schools, making its success beneficial for both students and parents. In this ultimate guide, we'll explore effective strategies, practical tips, and resources to help ensure that both you and your child feel confident and well-prepared in the lead-up to exam day. Whether you’re navigating the study materials or managing exam anxiety, this guide will provide you with the insights you need to tackle the 11 Plus with success.
What Is the 11 Plus Exam?
The 11 Plus exam is an entrance test typically taken in the early part of Year 6. It assesses a child's ability in four key areas:
English – Reading comprehension, spelling, punctuation, grammar, vocabulary, and creative writing.
Maths – Problem-solving, arithmetic, fractions, percentages, and word problems.
Verbal Reasoning – Logical thinking, vocabulary skills, word patterns, and code-breaking.
Non-Verbal Reasoning – Spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and diagrammatic reasoning.
Exam formats vary by school and, indeed, even by region, so it is very important that you check out (well in advance) which region your preferred target schools are governed by. The most common providers of the 11 Plus, however, are GL Assessment and CEM, each with slightly different question styles.
The 11 Plus English and Maths exams generally aim to evaluate the subjects taught in Key Stage 2. So, most of what is included in the 11 Plus exams should hopefully already be known to your child through their English and Maths lessons. However, some assessments may feature concepts from Year 6 that they might not have covered yet. This approach enables examiners to gauge their ability to tackle new and challenging problems. It is with these concepts that children will likely need extra help or practice, so 11 Plus workbooks, worksheets, tutorials, private tutoring etc. may be helpful.
In contrast, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning do not form part of the national curriculum. If your child is in a state primary school, it is unlikely they will have encountered these topics in their classroom learning.
Reasoning tests examine cognitive skills, assessing how effectively a child can recognise patterns, make connections, and solve problems. Verbal reasoning focuses on working with words and letters, while non-verbal reasoning deals with shapes and diagrams.
Those children preparing for independent school entrance exams will almost certainly be required to take the ISEB Pretest for 11 Plus, which is done on computer. The areas covered are the same, however, so no special extra tuition should be needed.
How to Prepare for the 11 Plus Exam
1. Start Early and Plan Ahead
The best time to start preparing for the 11 Plus is 12 to 18 months before the exam. A structured study plan will help your child cover all subjects effectively. Here’s how to create one:
Daily Study Routine – Dedicate 1-2 hours per day to 11+ preparation.
Weekly Schedule – Rotate between subjects to ensure balanced learning.
Mock Tests – Introduce timed practice tests every few weeks to track progress.
Review Mistakes: Go over incorrect answers to understand where your child needs improvement. Very often, having a special notebook designed for writing down incorrect answers is perfect for reviewing later on.
2. Use the Right Study Resources
Invest in high-quality study materials to maximise success:
Books: Bond 11+, CGP, Schofield & Sims
Online Platforms: Atom Learning, EdPlace, BOFA
Practice Papers: Use past papers from target schools to familiarise your child with the exam format.
3. Master Core Subjects
English
Encourage daily reading (fiction, non-fiction, and poetry).
Expand vocabulary using flashcards and word lists.
Practise comprehension questions and creative writing exercises.
Maths
Focus on problem-solving and mental arithmetic.
Practise fractions, percentages, ratios, and algebra.
Solve a mix of word problems and numerical questions.
Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning
Use workbooks and online quizzes to sharpen skills.
Teach pattern recognition techniques.
Practise under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
4. Develop Time Management Skills
The 11+ exam is timed, so students must learn to pace themselves. Strategies include:
Timed Mock Tests – Gradually reduce the time allowed to increase speed.
Skipping Difficult Questions – Encourage moving on if stuck and returning later.
Double-Checking Answers – Allocate the last few minutes for review.
5. Build Exam Confidence and Reduce Stress
A confident child performs better under exam conditions. Help them stay positive by:
Encouraging a growth mindset – focus on effort, not just results.
Creating a stress-free environment with regular breaks, rewards and time to play!.
Practising mindfulness techniques like deep breathing to manage nerves.
How to Prepare for the 11 Plus Interview
Many independent schools also require an interview as part of the admission process. Here’s how to prepare:
1. Practise Speaking Clearly and Confidently
Encourage your child to answer in full sentences and speak at a steady pace. Practising with a parent or tutor can help boost confidence. Eye contact is a great one here - let your child know that it is better to look directly at the person rather than stare at the floor when answering questions.
2. Understand Common Interview Topics
Students may be asked about their academic interests, hobbies, current events, or ethical dilemmas. Ensure they can discuss these topics comfortably. Sometimes, a visual prompt may be shown to the student, such as a painting, a photograph etc. The idea here is to engage the student in an interesting discussion rather than to fact-check a child’s general knowledge.
3. Mock Interviews
Conduct practice interviews at home to help your child become familiar with common questions and improve their responses.
4. Prepare for Unexpected Questions
Encourage your child to think critically and articulate their thoughts even when faced with unexpected or challenging questions. Remind your child that very often there is no right or wrong answer - the interviewer is trying to see how your child thinks, and whether they can explain their opinions coherently and precisely. Family discussions on interesting topics around the dinner table are a great way to get your child to voice their opinions!
Example 11 Plus Interview Questions
Easy Questions:
What is your favourite subject and why?
Tell me about a book you recently read.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?
Why do you want to attend this school?
Can you describe your family?
Moderate Questions:
Who is your role model and why?
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
What would you do if you saw someone being bullied?
Describe a time when you worked as part of a team.
What do you do when you find something difficult in school?
Thought-Provoking Questions:
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
How would you solve a disagreement between two friends?
If you were given £1,000 to help someone, how would you spend it?
Do you think it’s more important to be kind or to be successful?
Should animals be kept in zoos?
What makes a good leader?
Why do we have rules in society?
What is more important: talent or hard work?
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
How do you think technology will change the world in the next 20 years?
Final Weeks: How to Prepare for the 11 Plus Exam
As the exam approaches, focus on refining techniques rather than cramming. Key tips:
Revise weak areas while maintaining strengths.
Sit full-length mock exams in realistic conditions.
Visit the exam centre beforehand (if possible) to reduce anxiety.
Exam Day Tips
Get a good night’s sleep before the test.
Eat a healthy breakfast to stay energised.
Arrive early to avoid last-minute stress.
Read instructions carefully and pace yourself.
Stay calm – if stuck, move on and return later.
Conclusion
Passing the 11 Plus exam requires early preparation, effective study techniques, and strong exam-day strategies. With a structured plan, the right resources, and plenty of practice, your child can approach the test with confidence and achieve their best possible results.
For more expert tips and free 11 Plus practice materials, explore our learning resources today!
FAQs
Q: When should my child start preparing for the 11 Plus?
A: Ideally, 12-18 months before the exam, but some children start earlier.
Q: What are the best 11 Plus practice books?
A: Bond 11+, CGP, and Schofield & Sims are highly recommended.
Q: How can I help my child stay motivated?
A: Use a mix of rewards, study games, and positive reinforcement.
Q: What if my child struggles with time management?
A: Timed mock tests and practising skipping difficult questions can help.
Q: How many practice papers should my child complete?
A: Aim for at least one per week in the months leading up to the exam.
Q: What should my child bring on exam day?
A: A few sharpened pencils, pens (if these are allowed, check if there are colour restrictions on the ink (e.g. blue or black), a rubber, a ruler, and a bottle of water.
Q: How can I help my child with verbal reasoning?
A: Encourage word games, puzzles, and practice with past papers.
Q: What if my child doesn’t pass the 11 Plus?
A: There are always alternative options such as independent schools or appealing the decision.
