How to answer SQE1 single best answer questions

Every SQE1 question is a single best answer question: a short scenario, a question and five options. More than one option may look plausible, but only one is the best answer to the question asked. This guide sets out a simple method you can use on every question, and how to keep to time on the day.

Know the format

Each question has three parts. The scenario sets out the facts. The question, sometimes called the lead-in, tells you exactly what you are being asked: the legal position, the next step or the best advice. Five options follow. From January 2027, each FLK assessment has 170 questions, answered in two sessions of 85 questions, with 2 hours 33 minutes for each session. You can try real examples in the SRA's sample questions.

Step 1: read the question first

Read the final sentence before the facts. Knowing whether you are asked for the likely outcome, the correct procedure or the most appropriate advice tells you what to look for as you read the scenario.

Step 2: name the issue

Read the scenario once, carefully. Note who is involved, the dates, sums and deadlines, and any detail that seems deliberately placed. Most scenarios turn on one legal issue. Try to name it, and the rule that governs it, before you look at the options.

Step 3: answer before you look

Decide what you think the answer is, then look for the option that matches it. This stops plausible but wrong options from steering your reasoning.

Step 4: rule options out

If no option matches, work through them one at a time. Rule out any option that misstates the law, answers a different question or depends on facts that are not in the scenario. Watch for options that are true statements of law but do not answer the question asked.

Step 5: choose the best answer

Sometimes two options both look right. Go back to the question: the best answer is the one that most fully and precisely answers what was asked, on these facts. If you are still unsure, make your best choice and move on rather than losing time.

Keep to time

Two hours 33 minutes for 85 questions is about 1 minute 48 seconds a question. Some questions will take less time than that. If one is taking much longer, make your best choice and move on.

Practise the method

The method becomes automatic with practice. Use the daily question to rehearse it: read the question, name the issue, answer before you look, then read the worked explanation for every option, including the ones you ruled out.

Keep practising

Today’s question · Browse SQE1 practice questions

Sources

SRA: SQE1 sample questions
SRA: Important changes to SQE1 for January 2027 onwards
SRA: SQE1 assessment specification