Language Study Tips
There are various strategies that good language learners use.
Know your goals and learning preferences
The more you know about why you're learning English and how you like to learn, the more effective your study will be.
- What do you hope to accomplish by studying English? Listing goals makes it easier to reach them.
- Do you prefer studying alone or in a group?
Learning words
- As you read, you encounter words in context and add them to your passive vocabulary. Before you look it up in the on-line vocabulary list, try to get the meaning of a new word from the context.
- Do you already know the meaning of part of the word?
- Can you guess what must be happening from your knowledge of the world?
- It takes practice to take a word you've heard and make it part of your active vocabulary.
- Try using the word in a conversation or in writing.
- Many people find flash cards helpful, with the word on one side and the meaning in their native language on the other.
Learning grammar
- Just as with vocabulary, you can try to figure out how a grammatical structure works before you look for an explanation.
- If you make a list of the grammar structures you are weak in, it will help you to focus on improving those.
- Use the grammar notes for an episode to see the kinds of points to look for. Then you can start to apply this method of looking closely at texts on your own.
Approaching the language with the right attitude
Aspects of your first language, such as word order, color your interpretation of the language you are learning. Luckily, the better you get in the new language, the less interference there will be.
- Try to avoid translating into your language, so that you can observe English. Try to think like a native.
- Plan your time well. Regular, short sessions of study are best.