The first thing to do …
If you’re starting 11+ preparation, one of the most confusing parts is understanding which exam, or exams, you will actually be sitting. If you're applying to multiple schools, your child may have to sit multiple exams. Working this out is crucial before you begin preparing, as they can vary.
Exam boards include, but are not limited to:
- CEM
- GL Assessment
- ISEB
- written papers
The challenge is that there isn’t just one 11+ exam in the UK
Each exam tests a combination of maths, English, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning, but they differ in format, difficulty, and question style.
And don’t forget the creative writing! Many schools include a computer-based test alongside a handwritten creative writing task and this may be the only exam where your child can truly showcase their writing and personality.
So! In this guide, I’ll break down:
- the main types of 11+ exams
- what each one involves
- and what it means for your child’s preparation
GL Assessment (multiple-choice)
GL Assessment is one of the most widely used 11+ providers in the UK, particularly for grammar schools’ first-round tests. However, it’s important to remember that some highly selective schools (and grammar schools) have a second round of written papers in addition to the initial multiple-choice, computer-based assessments.
What GL typically includes
- maths
- English
- verbal reasoning
- non-verbal reasoning
These are usually:
- multiple-choice papers
- completed under timed conditions
Key characteristics
- predictable question types
- strong focus on technique
- easier to practise with structured materials
What this means for preparation
GL exams reward:
- familiarity with question types
- consistent practice
- accuracy under time pressure
This means that, with the right practice resources, preparation largely becomes a matter of repetition. However, it’s important to remember (especially in maths) that any gaps in your child’s understanding need to be actively taught. Repeating questions they don’t understand will not lead to improvement; it will only damage their confidence.
For GL Assessment, I would suggest using Atom Learning if your assessment is computer-based, and CGP Books for paper-based practice. They also provide free familiarisation resources on their website.
CEM 11+ (Also multiple choice)
CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) was designed to be less 'tutor-proof'. However, with the right practice, anyone can improve at home, and regardless of whether you have a tutor or not, practice and familiarisation are key. You wouldn’t go into a driving test having never driven a car!
What CEM includes
- maths
- English
- verbal reasoning
(usually no non-verbal reasoning)
Key characteristics
- more emphasis on speed
- heavier focus on vocabulary
- less predictable question styles
Important note
CEM-style exams are now less common than they used to be, but some schools still use similar formats (GL, though broader in content, has similar question styles).
What this means for preparation
Focus on:
- strong vocabulary
- quick thinking
- exposure to varied question types
For CEM, I would recommend using Bond books alongside CGP Books. A quick word of warning! The CGP maths practice books for CEM often set very tight time limits for their tests. Don’t panic if your child isn’t finishing them. Use these initially to build understanding of the content, and only introduce timed practice later to develop speed. Even then, if your child doesn’t finish, don’t worry.
Once your child is confident with practice books, a good next step is to try computer-based tests such as Pretests Plus, which offers CEM-style assessments.
Again, a small warning: these can be quite challenging, and some of the vocabulary exercises are particularly tricky. Don’t be discouraged. Instead, treat them as a learning tool and focus on steady progress rather than perfection.
ISEB Pre-Test
ISEB is a very traditional and, in my view, a more ‘friendly’ exam. It tends to avoid unexpected surprises or extreme timing pressures and it fairly assesses the Key Stage 2 curriculum (covering all years up to Year 6). The verbal and non-verbal reasoning components are also generally considered fair.
What it includes
- maths
- English
- verbal reasoning
- non-verbal reasoning
Key characteristics
- taken online
- adaptive (questions adjust to ability)
- often used as a first stage of selection
What this means for preparation
Preparation should focus on:
- consistency across all subjects
- maintaining accuracy
- preparing for a written creative writing task (for help to prepare, see www.study-planet.co.uk for my Writing Accelerator)
Quest Assessments (London Consortium & Similar Schools)
Some schools are now introducing newer, more adaptive assessments such as the Quest test, which is similar in structure to London Consortium-style exams.
What the Quest test includes
Quest assessments typically include a mix of:
- adaptive verbal reasoning (VR)
- adaptive non-verbal reasoning (NVR)
- adaptive maths
- adaptive English (including SPaG)
- creative writing task (handwritten)
In addition, they include two less traditional components:
New! Creative Comprehension
This is a non-adaptive, multiple-choice comprehension based on a range of source material.
This may include:
- maps
- images
- charts or graphs
- written passages
Children are often required to:
- interpret information
- cross-reference between sources
- apply reasoning rather than just retrieve information
This makes it quite different from standard comprehension papers. Where children have to learn to cross-reference and read images.
A good place to practice is Atom Learning.
When you feel that your child is ready for an assessment, Pretest Plus offer practice papers online. A little note, these are hard! If your child is only scoring 50 – 60% by the end, don’t worry, this is not a bad place to be. I have had students gain places at very good schools with this score.
Remember! Not all children need to achieve 100%. It’s important to consider how selective your chosen school is.
New! Puzzles and Problem Solving
This section focuses on maths-based puzzles, often presented in an interactive format.
Children may need to:
- drag and drop objects
- manipulate shapes or numbers
- solve multi-step problems
These questions test:
- logical thinking
- problem-solving skills
- flexibility in approach
Key characteristics
- adaptive in many sections (questions adjust to ability)
- less predictable than traditional formats
- broader range of skills tested
These are harder to prepare for and arguably you can’t prepare for the exact questions. However! You can familiarise using Pretest Plus and Atom Learning.
What this means for preparation
Preparation should focus on:
- strong core maths and English skills
- problem-solving ability
- interpreting unfamiliar information
It’s not just about practising question types but about developing thinking skills and adaptability.
In terms of scoring, the same guidance applies as with creative comprehension.
Creative Writing
Creative writing is often a less emphasised component, but it is a key opportunity for your child to show personality and flair, and may be the only piece of extended writing a school sees. It’s therefore important to keep this skill ticking over. The summer before the exams is often a good time to begin practising creative writing and I have plenty of free resources available to support this here.
I have also created a tool that can accurately mark responses, provide feedback, and suggest next steps. If you can establish a weekly feedback loop, this is excellent preparation and will help get your child’s writing into strong shape by September. Try it for free!
School-Specific Written Papers
Some schools still use more traditional written comprehension and maths papers, and many highly selective schools set their own written exams for a second round (for example, St Paul's Girls' School, Westminster School, and grammar schools such as Queen Elizabeth's School and The Henrietta Barnett School). These are often the most challenging and least predictable.
What they include
- written maths
- comprehension
- creative writing
- St Paul’s Girls School (an extra Third Paper: A Written Creative Comprehension)
Key characteristics
- require written answers (not multiple choice)
- involve deeper thinking
- test how well children explain their ideas
Why this is important
These exams:
- cannot be prepared for with multiple-choice practice alone
- require strong written skills
Where many students struggle
Particularly with:
- explaining answers clearly
- structuring writing
- showing working
This is where accurate feedback becomes critical. The written papers can be really hard to mark and assess at home – especially in English. Because, unlike multiple-choice exams, there isn’t always a clear right or wrong answer.
The best place to get written papers is downloading past papers from the school website, or you can buy comprehension resources. I also have free resources, including comprehension and creative writing tasks, that are levelled so you know where to start and where you should be aiming for.
To help marking, feedback and next steps, I have created a writing and comprehension accelerator for 11+ students.
It’s designed specifically for written exam preparation, where:
- answers need to be clearly explained
- structure matters
- marking can feel subjective
What it does
- provides clear, consistent marking aligned with 11+ standards
- gives structured feedback (like a tutor would)
- and suggests targeted next steps for improvement
This is particularly useful for:
- written comprehension questions
- creative writing
If you’d like to see how it works, I’ve included a demo and link below.
Final Thought
Once you understand the exam format, the next step is choosing the right approach.
You can read more here:
The 11+ can feel confusing at first — especially with different exam formats.
But once you understand what your child is sitting everything else becomes much clearer.
The most effective preparation is always:
- focused
- structured
- aligned with the exam format
I hope this has been helpful. If you need help along the way, you can subscribe to my weekly newsletter and updates recourses here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 11+ the same across the UK?
No — different schools and regions use different exam providers and formats.
Which 11+ exam is hardest?
This depends on the child, but written papers and highly selective exams are often more demanding due to their depth.
Do all 11+ exams include verbal reasoning?
No — it varies depending on the school.