The essay section in the 11 Plus exam is an opportunity for your child to show their creativity, critical thinking, and mastery of writing skills. But it’s also where many students stumble. The good news? These mistakes are often predictable – and avoidable.

In this guide, we’ll explore the five most common mistakes students make in their 11 Plus exam essays and, more importantly, how they can overcome them. With the right strategies and feedback, your child can turn these pitfalls into stepping stones for success. Read this with your child so they can learn what’s required to pass the writing task in their 11 Plus exam.

1. Lack of Planning

The Problem:

Many children feel the pressure of the clock and dive straight into writing without a plan. This often leads to rambling ideas, weak structure, or unfinished essays.

The Solution:

Teach your child to spend a few minutes planning before they start writing. A simple paragraph plan can do wonders:

• Introduction: Hook the reader and introduce the topic or setting.
• Main Body: Develop the story or argument in two to three paragraphs, each focusing on a single idea or event.
• Conclusion: Wrap up with a strong, memorable ending.

How We Help Children With Their 11 Plus Writing

Our Creative Writing Crash Course includes step-by-step tutorials on effective planning techniques. Plus, our personalised feedback highlights whether your child’s plan is strong enough to support their ideas.

2. Overuse of Basic Vocabulary

The Problem:

Words like “nice,” “good,” and “said” are overused in many essays, making the writing feel flat and uninspired. Examiners look for varied and sophisticated vocabulary to show a strong command of language.

The Solution:

Encourage your child to build a vocabulary bank. For example:

• Instead of “said,” use “whispered,” “shouted,” or “replied.”
• Replace “good” with “excellent,” “impressive,” or “outstanding.”

Practice using these words in sentences until they feel natural.

How We Help

Our course teaches students how to incorporate “expensive” vocabulary into their writing naturally. With regular practice and detailed feedback, your child will learn how to impress examiners with their word choices.

3. Weak Introductions and Conclusions

The Problem:

Many essays start or end with generic sentences like “This story is about…” or “The end.” These fail to grab attention or leave a lasting impression.

The Solution:

Teach your child how to:

• Start with a hook, such as a dramatic opening line, a question, or a vivid description.
• End with a reflection, a twist, or a sense of closure that ties back to the introduction.

How We Help:

Our video tutorials include lessons on crafting strong introductions and conclusions. Plus, our personalised feedback ensures your child’s writing starts and ends on a high note.

4. Grammar and Punctuation Errors

The Problem:

Mistakes like misplaced commas, inconsistent tenses, and spelling errors can distract from an otherwise great piece of writing.

The Solution:

Encourage your child to:

• Proofread their work if time allows.
• Use grammar tools or practice sheets to spot and correct common mistakes.
• Understand and apply advanced punctuation like semicolons and colons for added sophistication.

How We Help:

Our unique video-marked feedback identifies specific grammar and punctuation issues in your child’s work, with explanations they can refer back to.

5. Running Out of Time

The Problem:
Spending too much time on one part of the essay often leaves other sections rushed or incomplete, lowering overall marks.

The Solution:
Teach your child to:

• Allocate time for each section: e.g., 5 minutes planning, 15 minutes writing, and 5 minutes reviewing.
• Avoid getting stuck on one paragraph – keep moving to ensure a complete essay.

How We Help:
Our course includes tips on managing time effectively during exams so your child can practice writing within strict time limits.