5 Proven Tips to Pass the RES Exam the First Time (2026)
The RES exam in Singapore has a pass rate of less than 50% on the first attempt. Here are 5 proven strategies from successful candidates to help you beat the odds and pass on your first try.
The Real Estate Salesperson (RES) examination is notoriously challenging. With tricky question formats and a vast syllabus covering Singapore's property laws, regulations, and transactions, many aspiring property agents struggle to pass on their first attempt.
But here's the good news: with the right preparation strategy, you can significantly increase your chances of success. We've compiled 5 proven tips from candidates who passed the RES exam to help you prepare effectively and confidently.
1. Attend All Lessons and Master Both Memory and Concept Work
While 75% attendance is the minimum requirement for the RES course, you should aim for 100% attendance. Every lesson counts when it comes to understanding the complex real estate laws and regulations in Singapore.
Memory Work
These are facts you need to memorise, such as regulatory fines, property plot sizes, and specific penalties. The key is to find patterns and categories to help you remember.
Example: Penalty Categories
- $75k, 3 years: Running agency without licence
- $50k, 3 years: Falsifying documents for CEA registration
- $25k, 1 year: Unqualified to operate (dual representation, acting without license)
- $10k, 0.5 year: Qualified but committed wrongdoing
Concept Work
These include land laws, misrepresentations, interests in land, and encumbrances. For concepts, you must understand the "why" behind each rule so you can apply it to various scenarios in the exam. The RES exam tests application, not just memorisation.
Pro Tip
Create mind maps and summarise key topics from each chapter in your own words. Teaching concepts to others is also an excellent way to test your understanding. If you cannot explain it simply, you do not understand it well enough.
2. Master the Exam Format and Time Management
Understanding the exam format is crucial for effective time management. Each RES paper has 2.5 hours to complete 80 questions worth 100 marks.
RES Exam Format (Per Paper)
Recommended Time Allocation
90 minutes for Section A (60 MCQs)
Roughly 1.5 minutes per question. Do not overthink.
40 minutes for Section B (20 Case Study MCQs)
About 2 minutes per question, including reading time.
20 minutes for review and uncertain questions
Circle questions you are unsure about and return to them.
Strategy: Start with Section B First
Consider starting with Section B (case studies) while your mind is fresh. Section B carries more marks per question (2 marks vs 1 mark), so tackling it first ensures you give it your best focus. If time runs short, you lose fewer marks skipping Section A questions.
3. Understand the Three Levels of Learning
Most students only memorise or understand the material. However, the RES exam heavily tests your ability to apply knowledge in real-life scenarios. To pass, you must master all three levels:
Memorising
Know the facts, figures, and definitions. Use flashcards, mind maps, and repetition.
Understanding
Comprehend the "why" behind each rule and how different concepts relate to each other.
Applying
Use your knowledge to solve real-world scenarios. This is what case study questions test.
When studying topics like landlord-tenant relationships or ABSD calculations, always ask yourself: How would I apply this in a real transaction? What advice would I give as a consultant?
4. Practice Extensively with Mock Papers
Practice is the most effective way to prepare for the RES exam. Mock papers help you:
- Familiarise yourself with the question format and tricky wording
- Identify weak areas that need more revision
- Build confidence and reduce exam anxiety
- Improve your speed and time management
Recommended Practice Approach
- Start from Week 1: Do not wait until the last minute. Begin practicing alongside your course.
- Time yourself: Simulate exam conditions to build speed and stamina.
- Review every wrong answer: Understand why you got it wrong and learn the correct reasoning.
- Retake papers multiple times: This helps you recognise question patterns and common traps.
Pro Tip
The RES exam is known to test seemingly random details. Keep practicing and refining your notes as you discover new question types. Use the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes focused study, 5 minutes break) to maintain concentration during long revision sessions.
5. Prepare Your Mindset for Exam Day
No matter how much you study, your mindset on exam day plays a significant role in your performance. The RES exam tests your ability to think clearly under pressure.
The Night Before
- Avoid cramming: Review key summaries only, no new information
- Prepare your items:
- NRIC / Passport / Driver's license
- Pencil and eraser
- Approved calculator
- Water (in clear bottles)
- Jacket
- Sleep by 11pm: Rest is crucial for mental clarity
On Exam Day
- Eat light: Have a light breakfast and stay hydrated before entering the exam hall
- Trust your preparation: Walk in with confidence, knowing you have done the work
- Stay calm: If you encounter a difficult question, skip it and return later
During the Exam
- Answer what you know first: Build confidence by completing easier questions
- Never leave blanks: There is no penalty for wrong answers, so always make an educated guess
- Eliminate wrong options: Even if unsure, narrowing down choices increases your odds
- Trust your first instinct: Research shows your initial answer is often correct
Final Thoughts
The RES exam is challenging, but it is absolutely passable with the right preparation. Focus on understanding concepts rather than rote memorisation, practice extensively with mock papers, and maintain a calm, confident mindset on exam day.
Remember: you do not need to be a top student or have a real estate background to pass. You just need a solid plan, consistent effort, and the right resources. Start your preparation early, and you will be well on your way to becoming a licensed property agent in Singapore.
Ready to Start Practicing?
Maximise your chances of passing the RES exam with our comprehensive practice questions.