The shortest chapter in the handbook, and an easy one to skip. It's worth five minutes, because the distinction between Great Britain, the United Kingdom and the British Islands is exactly the kind of thing the test likes to ask.
Chapter 2 of the handbook
Great Britain is three countries. The UK is four: add Northern Ireland, which is right there in the full name.
Our summary, in our own words. The test can ask about anything in the chapter, so read the official handbook too.
All 8 of our questions on this topic. Say your answer before you open it: trying to answer first helps you remember it.
Which four countries make up the United Kingdom?
The UK is England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Republic of Ireland is a separate country.
What does 'Great Britain' refer to?
Great Britain is England, Scotland and Wales. It does not include Northern Ireland, which is why it is not the same as the UK.
What is the capital city of Scotland?
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland. Glasgow is the larger city, which is what makes this question catch people out.
What are the capital cities of Wales and Northern Ireland?
Cardiff is the capital of Wales and Belfast the capital of Northern Ireland.
Are the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man part of the UK?
They are Crown dependencies. They govern themselves, though the UK handles their defence and foreign affairs.
What is the official name of the country?
The full official name is the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Where does the parliament that governs the UK sit?
The UK parliament sits in London. Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast host the devolved legislatures.
Which parts of the UK have their own devolved governments?
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland each have a devolved government with varying powers. England does not have a separate one.
Chapters 1 and 2 practice test · 18 questions · 34 minutes if you take it timed