How to Build Your Wrong Questions Bank: A Step-by-Step System

Here is exactly how I tracked my mistakes during SQE 1 prep - the system that helped me pass on my first attempt.

This is not the only way to do it. You should adapt it to your own style. But if you are looking for a starting framework that actually works, this is what I used.

What I Tracked

I kept my tracking minimal. Five core data points per mistake.

Here is what I tracked:

1. The Topic
Not just "Contract Law" but the specific subtopic. "Contract Law - consideration" or "Contract Law - misrepresentation".

2. My Reasoning
Why did I pick the wrong answer? One sentence. "Thought consideration must always be monetary value."

3. The Correct Reasoning
What was the principle I missed? Again, one sentence. "Consideration must be sufficient but need not be adequate - can be nominal or non-monetary."

4. Mistake Category
This is critical. Was it:
• Knowledge gap - You did not know the rule
• Application error - You knew the rule but applied it wrong
• Careless mistake - You misread the question or rushed

5. Question Reference
The source so I could redo it later. "QLTS FLK 1 Mock 1 Q34" or "ULaw Practice Set 3 Q12".

That is it. Five data points.

Where I Tracked It

I used a Google Sheets spreadsheet. It syncs across devices and lets you filter and sort your mistakes to spot patterns instantly.

You can see at a glance how many Contract Law mistakes versus Criminal Law. You can identify if you are making more knowledge gaps or application errors.

That is it. Simple. Functional. Searchable.

When to Add Entries

Do not wait until the end of your practice session. You will forget your reasoning.

Add entries immediately after reviewing the explanation.

How to Use the Mistake Categories

The mistake category is not just a label. It tells you what to do next.

If it was a Knowledge Gap:
You need to study that topic again. Go back to your notes or textbook. Make sure you actually understand the principle. Then do 5-10 more questions on that specific topic.

If it was an Application Error:
You know the rule but you are not applying it correctly. This means you need more practice, not more theory. Do more questions on that topic. Focus on reading the fact pattern carefully.

If it was a Careless Mistake:
You need to slow down. Careless mistakes are a sign you are rushing. If more than 20% of your mistakes are careless, you have a pacing problem, not a knowledge problem.

The Bottom Line

Your Wrong Questions Bank is not just a study tool. It is a feedback loop.

It shows you exactly where you are weak. It stops you from repeating the same mistakes. It turns random practice into targeted improvement.

Most candidates do practice questions and hope they improve. You will track your mistakes and know you are improving.

That is the difference between guessing and having a system.