10 Tips for Studying Vocabulary

Studying English vocabulary is an integral part of developing your language abilities when you frequently use the newly acquired vocabulary. Yet many students don't know the best ways to study vocabulary. An enhanced lexicon (vocabulary you use) will enable you to speak more directly and clearly. Furthermore, it will help you to more effectively express the thoughts in your head and to avoid sounding repetitive.

Before you begin, remember that the absolute BEST way to learn is to use the vocabulary in conversations frequently. Doing this will make and strengthen the synapses (connections) in your brain.

1. Develop a list.

Use a list you receive from your teacher or school, or create your own list. For example, search the 1,000 Most Common English words.

2. Learn the Definitions

Use a dictionary to learn definitions. We have Idioms & Slang dictionaries available for you! Read, write and say the definitions several times.

3. Understand the Context

Even synonyms are often used in different contexts or have meanings that change how they should be used. (Look at Borrow, Lend and Loan.)

4. Get an Image

Search Google or use another method to get a picture to match your words. Having a picture with each word will likely help your brain.

5. Put Your List Somewhere You Look Often

For example, do you use the computer a lot? Leave your vocabulary list on the monitor or keyboard.

6. Label Things in Your House

Even if you have a verb such as look - put it on your mirror since you look in the mirror. Put the word evalute or research on your books. Remember - you want to create more connections.

7. Use Your New Vocabulary

Use your new vocabulary frequently in conversation, in your class, in your essays, emails, etc. 

8. Learn a Sentence that Contains the Word

Don't just learn the word. For example,when learning "examine," don't just learn "to look closely." Learn a sentence such as, "He examined the clues."

9. Create Associations

Try to rhyme words, sing them, think of words in your native language that sound similar, etc. CONNECTIONS!
 

10. Review

Don't just learn vocabulary for a test or to use in an essay. Learn them for life by reviewing consistently!