How to pass 11 Plus exams: A complete guide

Preparing for the 11 Plus exams can feel overwhelming at first. After all, children aged 10–11 face an important challenge as they aim to secure a spot in grammar schools or selective secondary schools. If you’re wondering how to pass 11 Plus, the key lies in careful planning, consistent preparation and the right strategies. For parents, it’s natural to ask, “Where do we start?” or “How can I help my child succeed?”

Fortunately, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process. With support from Edumentors, families can access expert tutors, personalised study plans and targeted 11 Plus practice. Whether it’s creating a study schedule, practising past papers, or managing stress, we’ll share practical tips to set your child up for success. By following these strategies, the preparation process can become much smoother and more manageable.

Understanding the 11 Plus exams

The 11 Plus exam is more than just a test. It’s a gateway to grammar schools and selective secondary schools. Understanding the exam structure is the first step to learning how to pass the 11 Plus exam.

The exam typically covers four main subjects: Mathematics, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Each subject tests different skills:

11 Plus exam format

The format of the 11 Plus exam depends on the exam board used by your chosen school. The two main providers are:

GL Assessment: Known for multiple-choice questions in all subjects, including separate sections for verbal and non-verbal reasoning.
CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring): Includes a mix of multiple-choice and written responses, often with a greater focus on problem-solving and comprehension.

Each section is usually timed, testing both knowledge and speed. Some schools may also include additional tests or interviews, so it’s important to check the specific requirements of the schools you’re applying to. Parents should check the specific requirements of their target schools, as they may have different rules or extra tests.

The parents’ role: Why starting early matters for 11 Plus exams

Now that you understand the structure of the 11 Plus exam, it’s time to focus on preparation. Starting early is one of the best ways to help your child prepare for the 11 Plus exam. As a parent, you play a key role in creating an organised and supportive environment that sets your child up for success. Here’s how starting early can make a difference:

• Plan Effectively – starting early gives you time to gather the right resources, such as practice papers and study guides, without rushing. You can also create a realistic study plan that fits your child’s learning pace and schedule.
• Spot Weak Areas – early preparation allows you to identify where your child needs extra help, whether it’s a particular subject or skill. You’ll have time to arrange tutoring or focus more on challenging topics.
• Reduce Stress – with more time to prepare, you can help your child tackle the syllabus step by step, reducing last-minute pressure. A steady routine with breaks ensures your child stays motivated and avoids burnout.
• Build Confidence – early practice helps your child feel familiar with the exam format and more confident about their abilities. You can provide encouragement and celebrate small wins along the way.

You’re giving your child the best chance to succeed while keeping the process manageable for both of you. Let’s move on to creating a study plan that works for your child!

Building a study plan for 11 Plus exams

Once you’ve started early, the next step is creating a study plan that works for your child. A well-organised plan helps your child focus on key areas, stay consistent, and make steady progress. As a parent, you can play a vital role in structuring this plan to suit your child’s needs.

Tips for parents

1 Tip: Be supportive but not overly controlling. Let your child take ownership of their learning.
2 Tip: Provide a quiet, distraction-free space for study sessions.
3 Tip: Monitor progress regularly and encourage open communication about what’s working and what’s not. Be flexible. Adjust the study plan as needed, based on your child’s strengths and areas for improvement.

Mock exams for the 11 Plus: Why they matter

Practising with mock exams is one of the most important ways to prepare for the 11+ exam. It not only helps students get familiar with the test format but also builds confidence and improves performance over time.

Time Each Section – mimic the exact timing of the exam for each subject. This helps students practise working under pressure and ensures they complete all questions within the given time.
Use Realistic Materials – use practice papers from trusted sources that reflect the exam board format, such as GL Assessment or CEM.
Switch Between Multiple-Choice and Written Answers – If your child’s exam includes both question types, alternate between the two during mock exams. For multiple-choice questions, practise eliminating incorrect answers quickly. For written sections, focus on clear, concise responses.
Review Mistakes Together – after each mock exam, go through the answers to identify areas for improvement. Focus on specific question types or topics where errors occur most often.

How can parents help their child prepare for 11+ mock exams?

Create a Quiet, Distraction-Free Environment: Set up a calm space for your child to practise. Make sure it mimics the actual exam setting as closely as possible, with no interruptions or distractions.
Use Results to Plan Ahead: Review your child’s mock exam results to identify patterns. Are there specific topics or question types they’re struggling with? Use this information to adjust their study plan and focus on weak areas.
Offer Encouragement: Acknowledge their effort and progress, even if the results aren’t perfect. Positive reinforcement keeps your child motivated and reduces exam-related stress.

Tips for each 11 Plus subject

Doing well in the 11 Plus exams means focusing on each subject. Whether it’s Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, or Non-Verbal Reasoning, knowing how to approach each one is key.

Mathematics

• Practise problem-solving questions regularly, focusing on key areas like arithmetic, geometry, and word problems.
• Break down complex problems into smaller steps to simplify the process.
• Use interactive platforms or apps to make practising maths engaging and fun.
• Memorise essential concepts, such as multiplication tables, through flashcards or quick quizzes.

English

• Strengthen reading comprehension skills by working with a variety of texts, such as stories, articles, and poetry.
• Build vocabulary by learning new words daily and practising them in sentences.
• Write short essays or creative pieces to develop writing skills and learn how to structure ideas clearly.
• Discuss books, articles, or stories to encourage critical thinking and deeper understanding.

Verbal reasoning

• Practise word-based puzzles and logical reasoning questions to build speed and accuracy.
• Identify patterns in letters, words, and numbers by completing regular exercises.
• Use logic-based games, riddles, and crosswords to make learning enjoyable and interactive.

Non-verbal reasoning

• Focus on recognising patterns, shapes, and sequences by practising with past papers or workbooks.
• Solve questions under timed conditions to improve confidence and exam readiness.
• Use visual aids, like puzzles or pattern-matching games, to simplify abstract concepts and reinforce understanding.

How to manage time and stay focused during the 11 Plus exams

Learning time management and exam techniques is a must for succeeding in the 11 Plus exams. These skills help students stay focused, manage pressure, and maximise their performance during the test.

Time management tips

Start with Easier Questions:

Encourage your child to answer the easier questions first. This way, they can secure marks quickly and save time for the tougher ones.

Practise with Timers:

Set up timed practice sessions at home to help your child get used to working within exam time limits. Practising under real exam conditions builds confidence and ensures they can complete all sections.

Staying calm and focused

Move On if Stuck:

Teach your child to skip a question if it’s taking too long and return to it later. This reduces stress and saves valuable time.

Use Positive Visualisation:

Encourage your child to imagine themselves doing well in the exam. This boosts motivation and helps them stay calm. Simple techniques like deep breathing can also help them refocus if they feel anxious.

Focusing on time management and staying calm, your child will feel more confident and ready to take on the 11 Plus exam. Next, let’s look at how past papers can enhance their preparation.

When to apply for the 11 Plus exams?

If you want to apply for 11 Plus exams, you have to know that most grammar schools begin their registration between March and May. As for registration periods, it typically closes between June and July.
The majority of 11 Plus exams are administered in September. Specific dates can vary by region and school. For instance, the Slough Consortium schedules its exam on September 21st.

11+ results release

Results are generally released by mid-October, allowing parents to make informed decisions before the secondary school application deadline on October 31st.

These dates may vary depending on the grammar school or consortium. Make sure to check the exact dates for your chosen schools to register and prepare on time.

Must-have resources for passing the 11 Plus exams

Passing 11 Plus exams is much easier with the right materials. Having access to the right practice materials can make a big difference. Here we offer you some must-have resources to help your child succeed:

Books and study guides

Bond 11+ Series: Offers in-depth coverage of topics like Mathematics, English, Verbal, and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
CGP 11+ Study Guides: Simplifies complex topics and provides plenty of practice questions.
Practice Papers: Past papers are important for understanding the exam format and question types. They help students practise under timed conditions and refine their techniques.

Interactive learning tools for 11 Plus exams

Quizlet: Allows students to create flashcards and quizzes to improve vocabulary and reasoning skills.
Kahoot: Offers interactive quizzes and games that make learning fun and collaborative.
BBC Bitesize: A trusted source for covering foundational concepts in Mathematics and English.

Conclusion

Passing the 11 Plus exam is challenging, but with the right mindset, it is definitely achievable. By starting early, creating a solid study plan, practising regularly and using high-quality resources, a child can feel confident and well-prepared for the big day and even aim for high scores in 11 plus, which improve chances of entry into top grammar schools.

As a parent, guidance and encouragement play a role in this process. Continued involvement, celebration of a child’s progress and addressing challenges as a team contribute. The goal is not only to pass the exam but also to equip the child with valuable skills and confidence for the future.

For those seeking online tutoring for the 11 Plus, providers can offer support to make preparation more effective and personalised. With the right strategies, a child can learn how to pass the 11 Plus, achieve high scores and secure a place at a desired grammar school. With professional guidance, a child can overcome challenges and remain on track throughout preparation. Success is encouraged overall.

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