One also said to start with them doing the 17th edition even though he knew I had no real electrical backgroud other than wiring spurs etc.
The 17th Edition is likely easier for some one who knows nothing. The exam shows your ability to read the book no more. To complete within the allotted time you must be able to answer some questions without referring to book.
Normal method is 1) Answer all you think you know. 2) Look up those you don't know. 3) Until time runs out start checking those you thought you knew. After 6 weeks with 2 hours a week most people will pass even with no electrical knowledge.
It will be changing now but it seemed the setters were trying to catch people out. They would ask is "A person with technical knowledge or sufficient experience to enable him/her to avoid dangers which electricity may create." a) Instructed Person, b) Skilled Person, c) Competent person or d) Journeyman?
The "and others" is added to competent person so the two skilled and competent were very close. But in real terms the answer does not show how well you understand only if you can read.
To me every question should combine two rules or at least not use exact wording so is it permitted to fit a 13A socket with 4 meters of supply cable of 2.5mm² from a 32A MCB for example would mean you needed to interpret the 434.2.1 regulation not just read it parrot fashion but they never asked questions like that.
For interest:-
434.2.1 The regulations in Regulation 434.2 shall not be applied to installations situated in locations presenting a fire risk or risk of explosion and or where the requirements for special installations and locations specify different conditions. Amended July 2008
Except where Regulation 434.2.2 or 434.3 applies, a device for protection against fault current may be installed
other than as specified in Regulation 434.2. under the following conditions:
The part of the conductor between the point of reduction of cross-sectional area or other change and the position of the protective device shall:
(i) not exceed 3 m in length, and
(ii) be installed in such a manner as to reduce the risk of fault to a minimum, and
NOTE: This condition may be obtained. for example, by reinforcing the protection of the wiring against external influences
(iii) be installed in such a manner as to reduce to a minimum the risk of fire or danger to persons.
May be it's just as well that type of question is not asked as I have argued many times over the maximum length of a spur and with fellow electricians.
The inspection and testing both fixed and in service equipment however needs more skill. Daft as it may seem many pass the in service equipment (PAT testing) and show latter they really have no idea.
To be fair some items are not easy. I remember doing a rota brooch where the drill was class II but the mag mount base was class I and it transpired it had been tested 6 times as a class II item even though class I.
But again it is never the easy bits which cause problems. Most DIY guys can fit a socket. How many can work out line and neutral have been swapped is another question.
A EICR is only done every 10 years in domestic (5 years Scottish rental property) so you can be taken to task 10 years after the event when for the first time some one checks what you have done.