Creative writing also often called imaginative writing is a key component of the English syllabus throughout primary school and high school. Students are expected to write creatively and use their…
Using HSC English past papers is an excellent way to prepare for your exam. Reviewing previous exams can help identify areas you need to improve on and give you an idea of the types of questions that might appear in the test.
You’ll find below the English past papers for Standard, Advanced and Extension 1 courses. There are two separate tests for the Standard and Advanced units and a single exam for the Extension 1 papers. We’ve also included the marking guidelines for all the past papers, so you’re aware of what assessors are looking for.
HSC Standard and Advanced English Past Papers 1
HSC Standard English Paper 2
| Year | HSC English Standard Exam Paper 2 | HSC English Standard Marking Guidelines Paper 2 |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2020 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2019 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2018 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2017 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2016 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2015 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2014 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2013 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2012 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2011 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2010 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2009 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
HSC Advanced English Paper 2
| Year | HSC English Advanced Exam Paper 2 | HSC English Advanced Marking Guidelines Paper 2 |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2010 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2019 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2018 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2017 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2016 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2015 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2014 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2013 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2012 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2011 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2010 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2009 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
HSC English Extension 1 Papers
| Year | HSC English Extension 1 Exam Paper | HSC English Extension 1 Marking Guidelines |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2020 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2019 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2018 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2017 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2016 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2015 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2014 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2013 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2012 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2011 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2010 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
| 2009 | HSC Exam Paper | Marking Guidelines |
How to Use the Past Papers
Practising with English past papers is a common studying technique. It can help familiarise yourself with the style of questions you might encounter during the HSC exam and help you get comfortable with the timeframe requirements for each section. The more you complete, the greater your confidence will be when taking your seat for the test.
While completing the English past papers, take note of the questions you’re struggling with. Don’t beat yourself up if you don’t know the answers. It’s why these past papers are a useful study tool. These areas you’re finding difficult will become your focus areas. It will narrow your focus so you can adjust your notes, review chapters in your textbook, clarify with your teacher, or book time with an HSC English tutor, so you’re ready to sit the exam.
As you complete multiple English past papers, you’ll begin to notice your confidence grow with the topics that might get covered. You should attempt to simulate the test conditions as best as you can. Before you begin, set a timer and complete the practice paper in an area where you know you won’t get disturbed. It will help you:
- develop strategies when you get stuck on a question
- teach you to manage your time, so you can finish the test
- help you remain calm in a high-pressure environment
If at any time you notice that you’re struggling to improve, you should speak to your teacher or get in touch with an HSC English tutor to get expert advice on how to best prepare yourself for the exam.
Ready to take on your first English past paper? Grab your notes and start the clock! Good luck!
HSC English Tutors
Master Coaching offers one on one tutoring for HSC English. We are located in Hurstville, Sydney, and also offer online tutoring for students across NSW.