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The English GCSE exams can be challenging, not just because of the content, but also due to the pressure and time constraints. Many students lose valuable marks not because they don’t understand the material, but because of avoidable errors. In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the most common mistakes students make in their English Language and Literature GCSEs—and how to avoid them.

1. Misreading the Question

The Mistake: Students often dive into writing without fully understanding what the question is asking, especially in unseen texts or creative writing prompts.

How to Fix It: Spend at least a minute underlining key words in the question. Ask yourself: What is the question really asking me to do? Stick to the task and don’t drift into general analysis.

2. Lack of Planning

The Mistake: Rushing into writing without a clear structure, especially in Section B of the exam (writing tasks), can lead to messy and unfocused answers.

How to Fix It: Always plan your answer—even just a bullet point list of your main ideas. A well-organized response is easier to read and more likely to hit higher marks for structure and clarity.

3. Forgetting to Use Quotes

The Mistake: Making points without supporting them with evidence from the text.

How to Fix It: Embed short, relevant quotes in your answers to support your ideas. Remember the PEE or PEEL structure: Point, Evidence, Explain (Link).

4. Overusing Literary Techniques Without Analysis

The Mistake: Listing similes, metaphors, and alliteration without explaining their effect.

How to Fix It: Focus on why the writer has used a particular technique. What mood, tone, or message does it create? It’s better to analyze one technique deeply than to mention several superficially.

5. Weak Conclusions

The Mistake: Ending your answer abruptly or repeating earlier points without adding anything new.

How to Fix It: Use the last paragraph to summarise your main argument or insight. A strong conclusion ties your points together and shows clarity of thought.

6. Ignoring Assessment Objectives (AOs)

The Mistake: Writing creative responses without showing technical accuracy, or analytical responses without exploring writer’s intent.

How to Fix It: Know the AOs. For example, in English Language:

  • AO1: Identify and interpret
  • AO2: Explain the effect of language/structure
  • AO4: Evaluate texts critically
  • AO6: Technical accuracy (spelling, punctuation, grammar)

7. Not Managing Time Effectively

The Mistake: Spending too long on one question and rushing others.

How to Fix It: Know the timing for each section and stick to it. Use the last 5 minutes to check your answers for mistakes or missing points.

Final Thoughts

Exam success isn’t just about knowing the content—it’s also about avoiding common pitfalls. With careful reading, structured planning, and attention to what the examiners are really looking for, you can boost your marks significantly. Practice past papers, get feedback, and stay calm under pressure.

Good luck—you’ve got this!