Ugh, the theory test – as if preparing for the practical wasn’t enough! While studying for it may feel overwhelming and tedious, it will not only give you confidence behind the wheel but it will also act as a good complement to all of the information you’re taking in over the course of your practical lessons. Having said that try to get it out of the way early so you can focus on the much more interesting part – learning to drive!
Highway Code
While some consider it to be the most boring book ever written, the fact remains that it is a great source of information. Given that the theory test is based on the highway code, either get yourself a copy or look into the copious amounts of online resources which look to condense the key bits of information into more digestible chunks.
Get studying!
While it may seem like an obvious point, the more time you put into studying, the higher the chances that you’ll pass first time. It’s always better to spread the work over several days/weeks instead of trying to do too much in too little time. Try and be consistent; slow and steady wins the race!
Practice makes perfect
There are huge amounts of resources available to get a feel for how the Multiple Choice and Hazard Perception parts of the test work. Getting a friend to test you, taking a number of practice tests, or even testing yourself orally will help you consolidate what you already know while also identifying areas for improvement. You can practice both the Hazard Perception and Multiple Choice parts of the test on the DVSA website
Test yourself while in the passenger seat!
Everyone has different learning styles – some people learn best by applying what they’ve learned in real life circumstances. Testing yourself while you’re in the car can be a good help – particularly as a passenger. When you’re in the car with a parent or a friend – why not get them to teste you on road signs, hazards, different driving related scenarios over the course of your trip. These little things can make a big difference!
Stack the odds in your favour the day of your test
You want to make sure that you have done everything in control to help the day of the test run smoothly. Make sure you get a good nights sleep so that you feel clear and lively. Make sure you double check you’ve got your driving license with you and arrive half an hour before your test.
Relax…
On arriving, you’ll be given around fifteen minutes to get used to the system and screens. Take your time to acclimatise, get used to how it works and make sure to bring up any questions you have. You should also be given a couple minutes between each of the tests; use this time primarily as a chance to focus on the next task ahead
Multiple choice questions
There are 50 multiple choice questions and you have 57 minutes to complete the test. A score of 45/50 is required to pass. Take your time to read each of the questions and answers in detail. If you are struggling with a question, don’t waste too much time on it. It’s better to make note of the difficult questions, complete the rest and come back to it – it is often easier when looking at it with a fresh pair of eyes. Assuming you still have time after you’ve answered all the questions, it is worth going back over your answers one last time!
Hazard perception
Don’t worry if you don’t know what to expect from this part, you will watch a video on how it works before you commence. You will be shown 14 clips demonstrating every day scenarios in which a hazard develops. One of the clips will contain two hazards. You are given points throughout the test if you can identify the hazards as soon as they start to develop. The earlier you identify the hazard the more points you will get. Remaining calm, being on the ball and remembering your hazard perception revision should be the key in getting you through this part of the test.
Don’t fear failure
I hope that these tips give you a good starting point for your theory test. Remember, it’s all about doing your best – don’t be too disheartened if you don’t pass first time! The average person passes the test on their second time meaning a first time fail really isn’t the end of the world. If you do fail to pass, the test will make you aware of the areas for focus. Get another test booked in and focus on these areas of improvement and you should be good to go 😊
