So you’re studying for the WSET Level 2 exam and you want that shiny badge. Lucky you, because I’m spilling exactly how I passed with distinction so you can steal my secrets and crush it too.
Pick a test date that works for you.
When I booked my exam, I gave myself two months to study after the course ended. In hindsight, one month would’ve been enough, but everyone’s different. Just be honest with yourself. If you give yourself two months, make sure you’re actually studying for two months and not just cramming for the last two weeks. Been there, done that, wouldn’t recommend.
Read the book. Then read it again and again.
I know this sounds obvious, but seriously, read the book. Everything you need is in there. I read it four times and it made recalling info way easier during the test. Plus, if you plan on moving on to Level 3, you’re going to need this stuff locked in anyway. Might as well start now.
Don’t sleep on the workbook.
That workbook they give you? Use it. I saved mine for the final week before the test and powered through it over three days. Yes, my hand hated me, but it really helped, especially for tricky sections like Germany. Writing things out helps solidify all that wine wisdom in your brain.
Practice exams are your best friend.
Do every practice exam you can get your hands on. The ones in your course materials are great, but you can find more online too. I wrote down every question I missed and turned those into flash cards. Speaking of which…
Make flash cards.
Flash cards saved me. You can make them on Quizlet or go old school with index cards. I like Quizlet because there’s an app, so you can study while you’re waiting for your latte or lying in bed pretending you’ll fall asleep in five minutes. Spoiler alert: you won’t. Might as well memorize something.
Don’t forget to rest your brain.
All work and no breaks is a recipe for burnout. Give yourself time to recharge. Watch a few TikToks, go get a coffee, scream into a pillow, whatever works for you. Your brain needs time to absorb all that knowledge, so don’t skip the breaks.
Good luck with your studying and let me know when you pass with distinction. Manifest it now. Future wine pro status loading.
