Advice and Resources
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Common Mistakes in Essay Writing and How to Avoid Them
Essay writing is a crucial part of the 11 Plus exam, but many students fall into common traps that can lower their scores. Below are some frequent mistakes along with practical tips on how to avoid them.
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How to Write Powerful Descriptions Without Overloading Your Readers
Have you ever read a story where the descriptions went on and on until you forgot what was even happening? Or maybe you’ve read something so sparse that you couldn’t picture anything at all? Writing powerful descriptions is all about finding the right balance. When done well, descriptions can transport your reader into your world,…
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Writing Dialogue That Feels Real and Natural
Dialogue is one of the most exciting parts of a story. It’s where your characters get to speak, reveal their personalities, and move the plot forward. But writing good dialogue isn’t just about putting words inside quotation marks—it’s about making conversations sound real, natural, and believable. Have you ever read dialogue in a book that…
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How to Write a Gripping Story Opening
Have you ever picked up a book and, after just one page, felt like you had to keep reading? That’s the magic of a gripping opening. The start of your story is your chance to grab your reader’s attention and pull them into your world. If your opening is strong, your readers will stick around…
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Understanding Different Essay Types: Adapting Your Writing Style for 11 Plus Success
When preparing for the 11 Plus exam, mastering essay writing is a key skill. Whether you’re writing a story, a persuasive argument, or a descriptive piece, each type of essay has its own style, tone, and structure. Understanding these differences can help you feel more confident and make your writing stand out. Each type of…
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How to Write a Memorable Ending for Your Story
Have you ever finished a book and felt completely satisfied, as if the story had wrapped itself around you like a warm blanket? Or maybe you’ve read an ending so disappointing that it made the entire story feel pointless? That’s because endings matter—a lot! The ending is the final impression your readers will have of…
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Common Grammar Mistakes in Creative Writing (and How to Avoid Them)
Even the best writers can make grammar mistakes—it happens to everyone! But in creative writing, grammar is more than just rules and commas; it’s about making sure your story is clear, smooth, and easy to read. A small mistake can confuse your reader or pull them out of your story, and we definitely don’t want…
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Three Steps to Help Your Child Fall in Love with Reading (and Thrive in the Process)
Let’s face it—watching your child struggle with reading can feel like trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces. You know they can do it, you want them to do it, but figuring out how to help isn’t always clear. The good news? You’re not alone, and there are simple, actionable steps you can take to turn reading from a…
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Strategies for Success: Creative Writing Techniques for the 11 Plus Exam
The creative writing section of the 11 Plus exam can be one of the most challenging for children. But with a few key strategies, your child can improve their writing skills and significantly boost their chances of success. Below are some tried-and-tested techniques to help your child shine in their creative writing tasks. Show, Don’t…
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