5 Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Selective School Exam

Mistake #1: Not Understanding the Exam Format

Many students underestimate the importance of knowing the exam structure. The selective school exam typically consists of five key components:

1. Verbal Reasoning: This tests logical thinking, language comprehension, and problem-solving using words.

2. Numerical Reasoning: It assesses a student’s ability to solve mathematical problems quickly and accurately.

3. Reading Comprehension: This section requires students to interpret and analyse written passages.

4. Mathematics: It covers a wide range of Year 7-level topics, often at a higher level of difficulty.

5. Written Expression: This involves writing one persuasive or creative piece, marked for clarity, creativity, grammar, and structure.

Working with a selective school tutoring provider like Emu Education gives students regular exposure to each section through mock tests, topic drills, and feedback on their performance.

Mistake #2: Poor Time Management

Even high-performing students can struggle with time pressure. Many lose track of time or get stuck on a difficult question, leaving other sections unfinished. While preparing for the exam, and learning to keep an eye on the clock. It’s better to skip questions if they’re taking too long, and come back to them later. Additionally, timed mock exams help students develop a pacing strategy that works for them.

Mistake #3: Weak Written Expression Skills

Because the maths and reasoning sections seem more technical, students sometimes overlook the written expression component. However, this section can be a make-or-break part of the selective entrance exam.

1. Writing is assessed on creativity, vocabulary, structure, and clarity

2. Common tasks include writing persuasive or narrative essays

Practice writing under time pressure using different prompts each week. With the help of an experienced tutor, students get constructive feedback on their writing, learn how to plan effectively, and develop techniques to make their writing more compelling and structured.

Mistake #4: Cramming Instead of Consistent Practice

Last-minute cramming might work for class tests, but not for the selective entry high school exam. So, remember that the skills assessed are built over time, not memorised the night before. Also, rushed revision creates stress and doesn’t leave time for real improvement. True success comes from gradual, consistent preparation over several months.

1. Start preparing at least six months in advance.

2. Break down study sessions into manageable chunks and review material regularly.

3. Incorporate mock exams and revision into your routine to reinforce learning.

A structured weekly study plan gives students the time to strengthen their understanding across all exam components.

Mistake #5: Ignoring Weak Areas

It’s natural to want to focus on what you’re already good at—but that’s not what brings improvement. Avoiding your weaknesses in the selective school exam leads to unbalanced scores. Common neglected areas include verbal reasoning and extended writing. Weaknesses can drag down an otherwise strong overall performance.

It’s advisable to spend more time on areas that need improvement rather than over-revising strengths. A skilled tutor can identify knowledge gaps early and create a personalised plan to address them. That way, no section is left behind.