Preparing for the Bar Course – A Practical Guide
- carlalh25
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Waiting to start the Bar Course this September? Here are my 5 top tips on how to get ahead.
1: Want to Get Ahead with the Centralised Exams?
The centralised exams in Civil Litigation, Criminal Litigation and Professional Ethics are set directly by the Bar Standards Board. This means that every student across all providers sits the same paper at the same time.
The challenge in these modules is the volume, not the complexity of the content. Taking the time to understand the syllabus early on will help you to distinguish what is actually examinable (topics that can feature on your exam), from what is simply background reading. This clarity can help you to revise efficiently.
You can find the syllabus here: The Bar Qualification Manual
When you start the course, I would then:
Start reading
Place tabs on the paragraphs that can be assessed (Paper 2 on Civil Litigation is an open book, meaning you can take your white book into the exam)
Make reading notes, condensing these into a mini revision guide
Transfer all notes into Q&A question flashcards
2: Looking for Extra Reading?
If you fancy getting prepared by doing your own background reading, here are my recommendations:
Title | Website Link | Comments |
A Practical Approach to Civil/Criminal Procedure | These two books were a great help when trying to visualise the litigation process. Very practical, easy and understandable language. However, they are not a substitute for reading the White Book/Blackstone | |
The Bar Manuals | Honestly, some of the best purchases I ever made. They cover most of the exams, include templates and are really student-friendly. | |
Oxford Dictionary of Law | Another good book to help you with any random legal language |
*Some of these books may be outdated now but still useful!
3: Have Free Time to Engage with your Inn?
If you haven't already started, think about signing up to some of your Inn's Qualifying Sessions. You can't be Called to the Bar without completing these and you're going to need to dedicate most of your time to the course.
If I had my time again, I would really try and get the most out of your Inn's support, rather than treating the sessions as a tick box exercise.
4: Want to Advance Your Experiences?
Chances are, applications for experiences will come up whilst you complete your course. Think mini-pupillages, mooting competitions. Update your CV and Cover Letter so you can apply for these without having to spend hours writing them from scratch.
I would also suggest going to your local Magistrates Court to watch real advocacy.
5: Enjoy the Calm Before the Storm
Take in this moment of peace and quiet before you're thrown into the deep end. These quieter days are more than just a breather, they are a chance to reset, gather your thoughts and provide you with one last bit of serenity before the chaos really kicks off.
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