How to Choose 11 Plus Study Materials

Step into any bookshop or search online for ‘11 Plus books,’ and you're hit with a tidal wave of choice. Bond, CGP, Letts... workbooks, practice papers, 10-minute tests. It’s overwhelming, and the fear of choosing the wrong materials is a real source of stress for many parents.

This guide cuts through the confusion with a simple 4-step process for selecting the right resources, helping you avoid wasting money and explaining exactly what to buy first.

What Is in the 11 Plus Exam?

The 11 Plus exam almost always draws from four core areas. You’ll recognise Maths and English from school, but two subjects will likely be new to both you and your child.

The exam typically tests a combination of the following:

• English: Comprehension, spelling, punctuation, and grammar.

• Maths: Problem-solving based on the school curriculum, but often trickier.

• Verbal Reasoning (VR): This is about solving logic puzzles using words, patterns, and sequences.

• Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR): This involves solving puzzles using shapes, pictures, and diagrams.

The reasoning papers test problem-solving skills rather than learned knowledge. This is why targeted verbal and non-verbal reasoning books are essential—they teach the specific techniques needed to decipher these puzzles quickly and accurately. Once you know what is tested, you need to find out how it’s tested in your area.

Find Out Your Exam Board: The Most Important First Step

Most grammar schools use one of two main exam boards: GL Assessment or CEM. The key difference is that GL-style papers tend to test each subject separately, while the CEM exam mixes them together and puts a heavy focus on speed.

Finding your local board is a 30-second job. Simply search online for “[Your Town or Grammar School Name] 11 plus exam board.” For parents choosing resources for the Kent Test, for example, this quick search immediately clarifies which provider is used.

This single detail dictates exactly what you should buy. For GL Assessment, you can get separate workbooks for each subject. For CEM, it’s vital to buy materials specifically designed for its unique format. Getting this choice right from the start is the key to effective preparation.

Workbooks vs. Practice Papers: What's the Difference?

Once you know your exam board, you’ll see shelves filled with workbooks and practice papers. Think of workbooks (often called revision guides) as the ingredients for a meal. They focus on teaching and practising one specific topic at a time, like fractions or synonyms. They are your starting point for building core skills without the pressure of a ticking clock.

In contrast, practice papers are the final dress rehearsal. Their job is to test, not teach. They mimic the format, timing, and difficulty of the real exam, helping your child build speed and stamina. Using them too early only leads to stress.

Starting with practice papers is a common mistake. The correct sequence is crucial: use workbooks from brands like CGP or Bond to build a solid foundation first. Only when your child feels confident with the material should you introduce timed practice papers. This approach builds confidence methodically and prevents burnout.

How to Structure Revision: A Simple Two-Stage Plan

The most effective way to approach revision is with a simple two-stage plan that prioritises accuracy before adding the pressure of speed.

• Stage 1: Foundation Building (Year 4 & first half of Year 5)Focus: Accuracy Tools: Topic-specific workbooks and untimed 10-Minute Tests.

• Stage 2: Timed Practice (Second half of Year 5)Focus: Speed and Stamina Tools: Full practice papers and formal mock exams.

By focusing on getting things right before worrying about getting them done fast, you give your child a solid base of knowledge. This methodical approach ensures they feel prepared when they finally face the clock, turning potential panic into confident performance.

Your Smart Starter Kit: The First Three Books to Buy

For Stage 1, your perfect starter kit contains just three items: one Maths workbook, one English workbook, and a pack of 10-Minute Tests for either Verbal or Non-Verbal Reasoning. This targeted approach lets you build core skills without a big upfront investment.

You will notice that brands like CGP and Bond dominate the shelves. The choice often comes down to style; CGP materials feel more modern and colourful, while Bond has a more traditional, straightforward feel. Neither is 'better'—simply pick the one you think will appeal most to your child's personality.

This simple kit provides the best materials to begin your journey, allowing you to test the waters and see what works before committing further.

Are Online Platforms and Subscription Boxes Worth It?

Beyond the bookshelf, a digital world of preparation awaits. Online learning platforms offer a significant advantage: adaptive technology. They can automatically adjust question difficulty based on your child's answers and provide instant feedback, which is great for identifying specific weak spots.

The key question is whether they are a good fit for your child and budget. Some children thrive with interactive games, while others find screens distracting. Subscription boxes offer the convenience of curated monthly materials but at a significant cost. Smaller, focused tools like vocabulary builder apps can offer a more affordable digital middle ground.

Ultimately, think of these online resources as powerful supplements, not replacements. The most effective strategy combines the best of both worlds, tailored to your child’s needs.

Your Action Plan: Create a Personalised Resource List in 4 Steps

Here is your immediate action plan to build a successful 11 Plus revision plan:

1. Identify Your Exam Board (GL or CEM).

2. Buy a 'Starter Kit' (one workbook for Maths, English, and Reasoning).

3. Begin with untimed 'Foundation Stage' practice.

4. Plan to introduce timed 'Practice Stage' papers in late Year 5.

This simple framework turns overwhelming choice into confident, step-by-step action, ensuring your child walks into the exam feeling prepared, not panicked.