How I did it: I completed a course in language school, which was very helpful. It's always better to have someone to answer all your questions, than to try to figure them out by yourself. Then I took a half-year break from studying (which wasn't a smart idea), and then continued to prepare two months before the exam. I didn't have much confidence, and my expectations after the exam weren't very high. But when I finally received results, I was shocked! I passed at grade A, with the score 85 out of 100. Grades were higher in papers that I could do practice tests for: Reading, Listening and Use of English. All in all, I very satisfied, and it's a great weight off my mind.

Lessons & tips:

• Follow your course and work on each lesson on time. Do your homework regularly and make sure you understand everything before you move on to another lesson.
• Work on your vocabulary continuously. Even if you're watching a movie, for example, and you hear an unknown word, take a moment to write it down in you notebook.
• Register for the exam while your knowledge is still fresh. Don't make any bigger pauses in your learning.
• Be confident. Staying calm is very important, so think positive. You probably know more than you think you know. 

Resources:

1. Longman English Dictionary Online
2. Advanced Expert CAE
3. Bridge Language School  

Apr 21, 2011, 06:05AM PDT | 0 comments | 4 cheers