3 tips if you need to learn a lot of vocabulary

Is the mountain of vocabulary growing over your head? No wonder, an English book for one grade contains around 1,000 words - not that little at all! Many students also add other foreign languages such as French or Latin - phew! Anyone who does not have a learning strategy for efficient vocabulary training is very likely to feel stressed and uncertain before the next vocabulary test. So that this doesn't happen to you again in the future, we have three tips for you so that you can go to the next test more relaxed.

1. Repeat with routine

Regular repetition is the key. Make a habit of studying your vocabulary every day, even if it's just 10 minutes. To stay tuned, develop a routine: Always study at a specific time of day (before dinner, after homework,...) and set a reminder on your mobile phone so you don't forget it.‍

Why is repetition so important? When it comes to new information (such as new vocabulary), your brain sorts out which is important and which is not. When information is presented over and over again, it is classified as important and stored in long-term memory. By repeating, you're signaling to your memory: Hey, remember that, I'll need that again later!

💡 Do you urgently need better grades? Then read our 10 tips for good grades

2. Break down your vocabulary for a better overview

A long list of vocabulary is waiting for you? Break down the vocabulary into sections and learn them in portions. If you use flash cards, divide them into piles. If you're learning digitally with an app, create several smaller vocabulary lists rather than one large one.

💡 Tip: Sort the vocabulary by topic so that your brain connects the words better together.

3. Take regular breaks

The brain needs time to “digest” when fed with so many new words. Depending on the form of the day, you should stop learning vocabulary every 25 to 45 minutes to relax your head with other activities - get some fresh air or listen to some music. The breaks are just as important as learning itself!

💡 Tip: Vocabulary Basic vocabulary English - with PDF download

The new routine will be rewarded — I promise!

Getting used to the new learning behavior may take some effort at the beginning. If you ever have a slack, don't be too hard on yourself and just continue relaxed the next day. Over time, you'll notice that you feel well prepared and safer when you need another test.

Take small steps to reach your (learning) goal safely and relaxed 💙