NZLeardriver, even a blind squirrel gets a nut every now and then! True, the format does make it easier to memorize some of the answers. I'm not sure how you can study the shape of the questions and use that to pass. If your mate studied specific answers, I can see how it is possible to pass with that strategy. Even in that scenario though, he would have to have learned something. Perhaps just not as much as he should. Hopefully, the practical test would catch deficiencies of the pilot who doesn't know the material. It's not a full-proof system, just a better one than the IREX in my humble opinion.
Helopat, unfortunately, it does look like the IREX format is here to stay. I just wish CASA was open to a little change in this area.
Cheers!
Rocker