Tips for using the White Book
1. Familiarise yourself with its structure
Spend time learning how the White Book is organised. Understand where the Civil Procedure Rules, Practice Directions and relevant commentary are located. The better you know the structure of the book, the less time you will spend searching during the examination.
2. Use tabs to mark important sections
Clearly labelled tabs or page markers can help you navigate frequently used sections. Consider using a consistent colour-coding system to distinguish different areas of civil procedure.
3. Highlight key provisions and commentary
Identify the rules and explanatory passages most relevant to your syllabus. Avoid highlighting entire pages. Excessive highlighting can make it harder to identify important information quickly.
4. Annotate selectively
Use permitted annotations and sticky notes to summarise important legal principles, identify key tests or direct yourself to related provisions. Keep your annotations concise and easy to understand.
5. Know what you do not need to look up
You will not have enough time to consult the White Book for every question. Aim to memorise frequently tested rules and use the White Book to check more complex or detailed provisions.
6. Practise navigating the book under timed conditions
During your revision, practise locating rules and commentary while answering questions. This will help you develop the ability to find information efficiently when time is limited.
Common mistakes to avoid
One of the biggest mistakes candidates can make is relying too heavily on the White Book. Looking up every answer can consume valuable examination time. Similarly, excessive annotations and complicated tabbing systems may slow you down rather than help you. The aim is to use the White Book as a targeted reference tool, not as a replacement for revision.
How to Use Blackstone's Criminal Practice
Blackstone's Criminal Practice is a major reference work covering criminal law, evidence, procedure and sentencing. It is a valuable resource when preparing for the Criminal Litigation examination. Although the examination itself is closed book, Blackstone's can help you develop the depth of understanding needed to answer questions accurately.
Making the most of Blackstone's
Start with the syllabus
The BSB syllabus identifies the material you are expected to understand for the examination. Use it to direct your reading rather than attempting to memorise the entire textbook.
Focus on procedural rules and legal tests
Pay particular attention to rules, statutory provisions, legal principles and procedural requirements that are relevant to the examinable topics.
Make concise revision notes
Summarise complicated areas of law into clear, manageable notes. Focus on when a rule applies, what the court must consider and what the consequences are.
Test your understanding
After studying a particular topic, attempt practice questions to check whether you can apply what you have learned. This is particularly useful for identifying the difference between knowing a legal principle and being able to apply it correctly.
Use the correct edition
Ensure that the edition of Blackstone's and the syllabus you are using correspond to the requirements of your examination sitting.