Mistake 1: Not Reading the Handbook
All 75 test questions come from official handbook. If you skip it: you'll fail. Read it twice cover-to-cover.
Mistake 2: Memorizing Wrong Facts
Old handbook (pre-2024) info. Always use current edition. Government updates historical information periodically.
Mistake 3: Skipping Practice Tests
Practice tests show test format, question style, timing. Without practice: you'll be surprised on exam day.
Mistake 4: Not Understanding Context
Memorizing facts alone isn't enough. Understand why Britain has 4 constituent countries, how government works, why healthcare is free.
Mistake 5: Running Out of Time
75 questions in 45 minutes = 36 seconds per question. Practice with timer. Skip hard questions, return later.
Mistake 6: Careless Reading
Questions are tricky. Read carefully. 'Which of these is NOT true' vs 'Which IS true' changes answer completely.
Mistake 7: Assuming You Know
Overconfidence. Study anyway. Many fail on 'easy' questions because they didn't verify answers.