The best 11 Plus study apps give children targeted practice in the subjects their chosen grammar schools actually test, while helping parents see where they are improving and where they still need work.
For most families, the right app depends on what their child needs most. Atom Learning is particularly useful for adaptive practice and detailed progress tracking, while Bond 11+ offers a more structured approach that works well for children already using Bond revision materials. EdPlace can help strengthen underlying Maths and English skills, and SATs Companion is useful for reinforcing Key Stage 2 foundations.
Before choosing an app, check that it covers the subjects and question styles used by your target schools. Not every 11 Plus exam includes the same combination of Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning, so a highly rated app is only useful if its content matches the test your child will actually sit.
Below, we compare five useful 11 Plus study apps and explain what each one is best for, rather than simply ranking them by app-store ratings.
What to look for first
Check subject coverage, test style, explanations, progress tracking, and whether the app works on the devices your child will actually use. App-store ratings change over time and can reflect billing or technical issues as much as educational quality, so they should not be the main reason to choose a resource.
Finding the Right Apps for 11 Plus Preparation
There is a wide range of educational apps designed to assist students in revising for the 11 Plus exam. These apps typically cover key areas such as Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning, offering interactive exercises and quizzes. Choosing the right app depends on individual learning preferences.
For example, some apps are more focused on quick drills, while others provide in-depth lessons on complex topics. When selecting an app, it is important to check if it covers all the subjects and skills tested in the 11 Plus, and whether it aligns with the format of the specific exam board your child will be sitting.
Some apps offer gamified learning, where students earn rewards or progress through levels based on their performance. This feature can be particularly motivating for younger learners, helping them to stay focused during revision.
Additionally, many apps offer instant feedback, allowing students to see where they went wrong and how they can improve. This immediate feedback loop ensures they learn from their mistakes and can work on weaker areas efficiently.
Online Resources: The Wealth of Knowledge Available
Beyond apps, a plethora of online resources is available for those preparing for the 11 Plus. Many educational websites provide free or subscription-based access to practice papers, video tutorials, and detailed explanations of common exam topics. These resources can be particularly useful for students who prefer visual learning or need to review material at their own pace.
Platforms like YouTube host videos from tutors and educators explaining complex problems in a simple and accessible manner, while dedicated 11 Plus websites offer resources tailored to specific sections of the exam.
For students who enjoy practising in a simulated exam environment, many online platforms provide timed mock tests that mimic the conditions of the actual 11 Plus exam. These platforms typically offer a variety of papers with different difficulty levels, helping students become familiar with the exam’s structure and manage their time effectively. By completing online mock tests, students can also track their performance over time, which can be invaluable in identifying patterns in their strengths and weaknesses.
The Role of Digital Flashcards and Revision Tools
Digital flashcards are another technological tool that can enhance 11 Plus preparation. Many apps and websites now allow students to create custom flashcards or use pre-made sets to revise key concepts, vocabulary, and mathematical formulas.
Flashcards are particularly effective for active recall, a proven method for retaining information. By regularly reviewing flashcards, students can reinforce their understanding of core concepts and ensure they are well-prepared for both the verbal and non-verbal reasoning sections of the exam.
Some platforms offer spaced repetition systems (SRS), which ensure that students are revisiting the material at optimal intervals. This method maximises retention by focusing on the content students find most challenging.
Digital tools like Quizlet, Anki, or other revision apps can help students organise their flashcards and track their progress over time. These tools can be easily accessed on smartphones or tablets, making it convenient for students to revise on the go.
Interactive Games and Learning Platforms
Incorporating educational games into 11 Plus revision can help students maintain interest, especially when tackling subjects they find difficult. Many apps and online platforms integrate games into their learning modules, turning the revision process into an enjoyable experience.
For example, students can solve puzzles or complete challenges that help reinforce their mathematical skills or test their vocabulary knowledge. These interactive elements can be particularly useful in helping students build the critical thinking and problem-solving skills required for the Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning sections.
Learning platforms that include leaderboards or collaborative learning features can also encourage healthy competition among peers. Some online platforms allow students to compete in quizzes against friends or other users worldwide, which adds a social element to their revision. These features not only make learning fun but also ensure students are regularly revisiting key topics in a way that feels less like traditional studying and more like an engaging activity.
Utilising Tutoring Apps and Virtual Classes
For those who prefer a more structured approach, tutoring apps and online classes offer a tech-savvy way to access personalised support. Many platforms now connect students with experienced 11 Plus tutors who provide tailored lessons via video calls or through the app itself.
These tutors can help clarify difficult concepts, guide students through tricky practice questions, and offer strategies to improve exam technique. Virtual tutoring can be a flexible and cost-effective option compared to traditional in-person tutoring, especially for families with busy schedules.
Some tutoring platforms also offer AI-driven assessments that analyse a student’s performance in real-time and adjust the difficulty of questions accordingly. This ensures that students are always working at an appropriate level, challenging them without overwhelming them.
These platforms often come with built-in tools for tracking progress, so both parents and students can monitor improvements over time. The convenience of virtual tutoring means students can fit lessons around their schedule and access expert help from the comfort of their homes.
Best Study Apps for 11 Plus Review
1. 11 Plus Blocks
Best for families wanting 11 Plus-specific quizzes, vocabulary practice and papers in one place. Short activities can make it easier to maintain a daily routine without turning every session into a long mock test.
2. Atom Learning
Best for adaptive practice. Atom adjusts difficulty as a child works and gives parents detailed progress information. It can be useful for children whose attainment differs sharply across subjects.
3. Bond 11+ digital resources
Best for families already using Bond books. Keeping digital and paper practice in the same ecosystem can reduce the need to translate between different terminology and difficulty scales.
4. Quizlet
Best as a vocabulary supplement. Build sets for synonyms, antonyms, spellings and unfamiliar words. It is not a complete 11 Plus course, so pair it with exam-specific material.
5. EdPlace or another KS2 foundation platform
Best when the underlying issue is school-curriculum knowledge rather than entrance-test technique. A child struggling with fractions, comprehension or grammar may benefit more from foundational practice than repeated selective-school mocks.
App versus workbook
Apps are excellent for repetition, feedback and progress data. Workbooks are better for written working, diagram annotation and practising the physical habits of a paper test. Use both where appropriate.
Check out our comparison of interactive apps. Our picks for revision books and resources are here.
Incorporating Technology Responsibly
While technology can greatly enhance the 11 Plus review process, it is essential to use it responsibly. Spending too much time on screens can lead to fatigue, so it is important to strike a balance between tech-based and traditional study methods.
Setting clear time limits for app usage and incorporating breaks will help prevent burnout and ensure students remain focused during their revision. Additionally, parents should review the content of apps and online resources to ensure they are suitable and align with the 11 Plus syllabus.
Ultimately, technology should be used as a tool to complement more traditional study techniques, such as reading textbooks, practising handwriting, or solving paper-based mock tests. A blended approach that incorporates both digital and non-digital methods will provide students with a well-rounded preparation for the 11 Plus.
A simple weekly approach
Use short app sessions for weak topics during the week, then one longer paper session at the weekend. Review mistakes immediately and revisit them several days later. The app should support the plan, not become the plan.
