Shin Kanzen Master Listening for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N2

Shin Kanzen Master N2 Listening Comprehension covers all five JLPT N2 listening question types: quick response, task comprehension, point comprehension, summary comprehension, and integrated comprehension. The book starts with a section on recognising sound features like similar-sounding words, contracted forms, and intonation. Each question type then gets its own chapter with targeted skill-building. For example, the quick response section trains you on identifying speaker intent and recognising indirect answers. The summary comprehension section teaches you to pick out the structure of an argument from keywords and examples. There's a mock test at the end. Scripts and answers are in a separate 46-page booklet. Two CDs are included.

This book breaks down listening into specific, trainable skills rather than just giving you audio to work through. That said, some learners prefer So-matome's lighter format for listening practice, and both books are considered easier than the actual exam. Supplement with practice tests before the exam.