THE FEYNMAN METHOD: Developed by physicist Richard Feynman, this method centers on the deconstruction and reconstruction of ideas.
How it works: Write the name of the topic you are studying at the top of a blank piece of paper. Write an explanation of the concept using plain language. Pretend you are teaching it to someone who knows nothing about it, using simple words and giving examples when possible. By doing so, you force yourself to understand the concept at a deeper level and to simplify relationships and connections between ideas. As you write, identify the themes you are having trouble explaining, and after you are done, go back to the source material and re-read them. Repeat the process as many times as needed.
How to apply it to your B2 studies: Write about a grammar topic of your choice, such as modals. Describe in a simple manner the uses of each modal (to express assumptions, to refer to an absence of obligation, among others) and provide short examples. Identify the ones you had trouble remembering or explaining their meaning, and re-read them until you have learnt them.
THE POMODORO TECHNIQUE: Productivity expert Francesco Cirillo created this time management method to help people complete their projects faster and with less mental fatigue.
How it works: Decide how many hours you want to dedicate to your tasks. Break your workday into 25-minute chunks separated by five-minute intervals (called “pomodoros”). After your fourth or fifth pomodoro, take a longer break of 15 to 20 minutes. Knowing you only have 25 minutes to make as much progress as you can on your task will encourage you to avoid distractions and keep working. The forced intervals will help you reach your goal without feeling burnt-out while working.
How to apply it to your B2 studies: Try writing brief texts, such as emails or short stories and challenge yourself to complete them before your next pomodoro. When the day of your Fisrt Certificate Exam comes, you will have more experience on writing under pressure and with strict a time limit.
EXTRA: Being concious of how much time is left until your next break may help you increase your productivity and keep your pace. Try using a "Pomodoro timer", which you can find in certain apps and websites, or in video format:
THE LEITNER SYSTEM: This method, designed by the science journalist Sebastian Leitner, uses flashcards and spaced repetition to aid memorisation.
How it works: Make flashcards with the information you need to learn. Sort them into several numbered groups according to how well you know the information of each card (number 1 being the least known topics). Flashcards belonging to group 1 will be read every day, the ones from group 2 will be revised every two days, the ones from group 3 every three days, and so on. When the time to study comes, try to remember the information written on each flashcard. If you succeed, send the already-learnt card to the next group. If you fail, send it back to the first group.
How to apply it to your B2 studies: Include words and expressions you need to revise on your flashcards. Try adding phrasal verbs, mixed vocabulary, connectors and phrases for essays, etc.
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