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Revision, rest, mindset and logistics — how to peak at exactly the right moment.
Book a Free ConsultationThe week before the 11+ exam is not the time for panic revision or intensive cramming — it is the time to peak physically and mentally. Here is exactly how to use it.
Do one short practice paper or targeted topic review on Monday. Review your child's error log from past papers and run through the question types where they most frequently lose marks. Keep sessions to 30–40 minutes maximum. The goal is to maintain sharpness, not introduce anything new.
Tuesday can include another brief review session — vocabulary for verbal reasoning, a few mental maths drills — but should end early in the day. From Wednesday, stop formal revision entirely.
These days should look as normal as possible. School, meals, enjoyable activities. Avoid exam talk — constant discussion about the 11+ amplifies anxiety and serves no preparation purpose. If your child raises the subject, respond calmly and confidently without dwelling on it.
Prioritise sleep. Children perform better on tasks requiring concentration when well rested. A consistent bedtime is more important than ever this week.
Pack everything needed for the exam in advance: pencils, eraser, admission letter, and any permitted snacks. Go through the logistics together so there is no uncertainty in the morning. Aim for a normal evening — a familiar dinner, a calm activity, and an early bedtime. Avoid screens late into the evening.
A brief, reassuring conversation — "You have prepared well, you know this material, just do your best" — is all that is needed. Avoid over-briefing or running through last-minute tips.
Our 11+ specialists help students use the final week productively, reviewing weak areas without overloading and keeping confidence high going into exam day. Our students have achieved a 95%+ offer rate across selective school entry, and we're rated 4.8/5 on Trustpilot. Book a free consultation if you'd like to discuss preparation.
Allow plenty of time. A rushed, stressed arrival undoes weeks of calm preparation. Aim to leave early enough to arrive 10–15 minutes before the exam starts. Give your child a proper breakfast with slow-release carbohydrates and protein — avoid sugary snacks that cause energy crashes.
At the venue, keep goodbyes brief and positive. "You've got this, do your best" is perfect. Avoid adding pressure with "this is really important" or "make sure you..." last-minute instructions.
Our specialist tutors support children through the final weeks of preparation, including exam technique coaching and confidence building. Book a free consultation to discuss your child's preparation.
Q: Should my child keep revising the week before the 11+?
Light revision is appropriate in the early part of the week. From Wednesday onwards, ease off significantly. Arriving at the exam mentally fresh is more valuable than last-minute cramming.
Q: How should I manage my child's anxiety the week before?
Keep the atmosphere calm and normal. Avoid discussing the exam constantly. Maintain usual routines including enjoyable activities. Acknowledge that nerves are normal and encourage your child to channel them as focus.
Q: What should my child eat the morning of the exam?
A proper breakfast with slow-release carbohydrates and protein provides sustained energy and focus. Avoid heavy, sugary or unfamiliar foods. Ensure your child is well hydrated and bring a snack and water if the exam permits.
Q: What should I bring to the 11+ exam?
Bring HB pencils, an eraser, the examination letter or reference number, and any required ID. Arrive 10–15 minutes early. Check the exam centre's stationery requirements in advance — some specify particular pencil grades.
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