SQA Advanced Higher English specification (X824 77)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your SQA Advanced Higher English exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official SQA Advanced Higher English specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official SQA Advanced Higher English (X824 77) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official SQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
The Advanced Higher English course enables learners to develop advanced analytical, creative, and critical thinking skills through the study of complex and sophisticated texts. It encourages independent learning and judgement, offering opportunities to engage with literature, language, and media in depth. The course builds on prior learning and allows for specialisation and personalisation, particularly through the dissertation and portfolio components. It fosters the ability to evaluate and synthesise ideas, and to communicate with clarity and sophistication, preparing learners for further academic study and professional communication.
Subject content breakdown
Skills, knowledge and understanding covered in the course
- Detailed knowledge and understanding of complex literary texts across genres.
- The ability to analyse and evaluate texts using appropriate literary and linguistic terminology.
- Awareness of literary techniques, conventions, and contexts influencing texts.
- Critical thinking and independent research in relation to literature and language.
- Ability to plan, research, and write analytically and creatively.
- Control of language, style, structure, and tone in both critical and creative writing.
Dissertation
- Independent study of literary texts chosen by the learner.
- Exploration of a specific question or theme across at least two texts.
- Demonstrates detailed analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of ideas.
Portfolio–writing
- Two pieces of writing: one broadly creative and one broadly discursive.
- Demonstrates independent thought, originality, and control of language.
Textual analysis
- Study of previously unseen complex texts (prose, poetry, or drama).
- Application of close reading, critical analysis, and evaluation skills.
Assessment structure
Question Paper: Literary Study
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- 20 marks
- Learners choose one question from a selection and write a critical essay on a previously studied text.
Question Paper: Textual Analysis
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- 20 marks
- Learners write a critical analysis of an unseen literary text (poetry, prose, or drama).
Portfolio–Writing
- 30 marks
- Two pieces submitted: one broadly creative, one broadly discursive.
- Assessed externally.
Dissertation
- 30 marks
- Independent essay of up to 2,500 words on at least two studied literary texts.
Assessed externally.
- All components are externally assessed by SQA.
- The overall grade is based on performance across all four components.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your SQA Advanced Higher English isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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