For the 2-2-2-4 diagram, tune to open G (g D G B D) and pick strings 4 to 1 only. Skip or mute the short fifth-string g; it is not part of this voicing.
Barre the four long strings at fret 2 with your index finger, then fret string 1 at fret 4 with your ring finger. Keep the ring finger arched so string 2 still rings from the barre.
Try alternating A and A6 without moving your index finger: lift the ring finger for A (2-2-2-2), then replace it at fret 4 for A6. Pick string 1 on each change to hear the moving note.