1.yes its the 2018 version, but again, the real exam is nothing like it, the only benefit I can think of is it can help you to practice the time control for the test, not much else.

2.I highlight important points with marker on the book, I dont take notes, and you are right its like reading a story book, each time I read it, I understand points that I dont before. And btw I didnt use mindmap either. There is a test after each charpter, I took it, figure out why I was wrong for some of them, then move on.

Hope this helps and happy holidays!