Looks like some people are going to be working very hard if they are doing four topic areas and then controversies.
Controversies is compulsory.
There are more topics under this section on the new paper but the question format is more straightforward ( if they stick to it) . The old format ( pre this year) was difficult to target for top grades
You should then complete three other topic areas which can be either one from applications and two from theories or one theory and two applications.
I dont believe there is time to work four areas ( and thus give anyone a chance of a different question choice) . I tried that on the old paper and it didnt work so I do three areas.
If anyone does the same areas, I will help if asked.
My areas are awareness ( sleep hypnosis and dreaming) memory and forgetting - I do both of these because they are straightforward models for the most part and tha pplication I do is forensic . Forensic because most students like it.
The downside of doing just three areas is you have to answer the question for that area on the paper, so no leeway if its a difficult question.
But I really dont think there is time enough to do more than three areas and controversies.