Merve Dogan
September 13, 2023
Introduction
The results for the July 2023 P1 Licensing exam have recently been released, and I'm thrilled to share that I passed on my first attempt. Since then, I've received numerous inquiries about my study approach. While there is no one-size-fits-all strategy for acing this exam, I'm here to recount my unique path and offer some insights that might help you in your preparation journey.
1. Diverging from Conventional Wisdom
The Law Society of Ontario recommends reading through the exam material three times as a preparation strategy. However, I took a different route. In all honesty, I didn't even manage to go through the book once. My initial attempt at reading a chapter or two in the first section didn't yield positive results. With only two months to study before the exam, the vast amount of material seemed insurmountable. So, I decided to chart a different course.
2. Embracing Practice Tests
Instead of extensive reading, I invested in all four practice tests available on Emond and even sought out a few free ones shared in Facebook groups. I made it a habit to redo these practice tests multiple times, simulating the exam conditions. Initially, I took them untimed, gradually transitioning to timed practice sessions. While the practice questions didn't perfectly mirror the actual exam questions, I became proficient at using the index provided and navigating the book to locate answers. It wasn't about knowing everything in the material; it was about knowing where to find the information.
3. Leveraging the Provided Index
I didn't create a separate index; the one provided sufficed. When I had my study material bound, I divided the book into two parts and had my index separate. I refrained from excessive highlighting, reserving it only for headings. My early attempts at highlighting and color-coding proved counterproductive during practice exams, as my eyes naturally gravitated toward what was already highlighted. Thus, I reprinted everything and focused on highlighting only the headings in yellow, recognizing their significance.
4. Finding Your Study Style
While my approach worked for me, it may not be suitable for everyone. I would advise at least one thorough read-through of the material to gain an overall understanding. You'll discover that some sections are repetitive, which can be advantageous as it reinforces your knowledge. I have friends who succeeded by meticulously reading the material three times and others who made comprehensive notes after a single read-through. The key takeaway here is that there's no definitive way to study; the focus should be on finding a method that suits your learning style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no single right way to prepare for the P1 Licensing exam. The diverse paths that my friends and I took to success underscore this fact. The crucial point is that it's impossible to remember everything you've learned, so you must find a strategy that allows you to navigate the exam effectively. If you're seeking guidance or wondering about the best approach for your situation, don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you the best of luck in your exam preparations!