10 Tips to Get Ready for the 11+ Exam (Last 2 Weeks)

The countdown has begun ⏳ — with just a couple of weeks left before the 11+ exam, many parents wonder: “What should my child be focusing on right now?” The good news is that the final weeks aren’t about cramming; they’re about fine-tuning, confidence-building and staying calm.

Here are 10 simple but powerful tips to help your child feel ready:

1️⃣ Focus on Weak Areas

Don’t try to learn everything new at once. Instead, revisit topics your child struggled with — whether it’s fractions, ratios, or tricky word problems. Small, focused practice builds confidence quickly.

2️⃣ Practice Under Exam Conditions

Set aside quiet time, use a timer and replicate the real exam setting. This helps children get used to the pressure and reduces nerves on the big day.

3️⃣ Review Core Topics Daily

A short daily review of the essentials — like percentages, comprehension, or vocabulary — keeps key skills fresh without overwhelming your child.

4️⃣ Use Mock Exams Wisely

A realistic mock exam is the best way to prepare. It shows how well your child manages timing, highlights gaps and makes the actual exam feel more familiar.

5️⃣ Don’t Overload

Avoid cramming! Short, focused bursts of 25–30 minutes with breaks in between are far more effective than hours of stressed revision.

6️⃣ Check Exam Rules

Remind your child what they can bring — and what’s not allowed (like calculators or phones). Knowing this removes one layer of exam-day anxiety.

7️⃣ Get Organised Early

Pack pencils, erasers, rulers and water the night before. A smooth, calm morning makes a big difference to your child’s confidence.

8️⃣ Prioritise Rest & Sleep

Sleep is as important as study. A well-rested mind performs better than a tired one. Stick to a healthy bedtime routine in the final two weeks.

9️⃣ Stay Positive & Encouraging

Your encouragement matters. Remind your child of their hard work and progress so far — a confident mindset is half the battle.

🔟 Keep a Healthy Balance

Balance study with light exercise or relaxing hobbies. A fresh, relaxed brain learns and remembers more than a stressed one.

🌟 Final Thought

The last couple of weeks before the 11+ aren’t about learning everything from scratch. They’re about consolidating knowledge, practising smartly and walking into the exam calm and confident.

At Diamond Tutors, we help students do exactly that through our final 11+ Maths Mock Exams in Croydon:

📅 Dates: 27–30 Aug & 1–15 Sep 

👩‍🏫 Small groups (max 7 students) 

📩 Detailed feedback in 48 hours

👉 Book your child’s place today — limited seats available.