Learning a new language isn’t easy. Each one has its own little set of rules that govern how you use the language, what different words mean and how words are stacked together to express thoughts. English is often regarded as a simple language to learn.

Although it doesn’t have complex cases like some Eastern languages, it’s far from easy. In fact, it’s a language that you can learn fairly quickly, but spend decades mastering. Because of that, we’re giving you 9 quick tips that you can use to improve your English language skills!

Become immersed in the language

Immersion still remains one of the best ways to learn any language. By surrounding yourself with people who speak the language you’re trying to learn, you’ll be forced to communicate with them and use whatever proficiency you have to get your message across. There are different ways to become immersed in a different language.

The absolute best thing you can do is actually live in an English-speaking country. That way you’ll have no choice but to use English to get things done. If that’s not an option, the next best thing is to surround yourself with movies, news, newspaper, and other media which are all in English. Find a place in your city where foreigners hang out.

These places are usually open to everyone, so go ahead and meet new people. The reason why immersion works is that it forces you to use your knowledge of English, or whatever language you’re trying to learn.

Play word games

Every language can be divided into two main components — grammar and vocabulary. In order to be proficient, you’ll need to master both. One way of doing this is to study from a textbook. However, there are ways you learn vocabulary and grammar that are way more fun! Word games are a popular pastime for many. Scrabble has often been touted as one of the most popular table games all around the world.

One of the reasons why it’s so popular even in countries where English isn’t spoken is that it’s used as a learning tool. Additionally, there’s a whole network of aids out there that will help you get better. Using solver software will make you a better player, and thus help your knowledge of the English language. Word games should definitely be in your arsenal of tools.

Find people to talk to

As we’ve mentioned earlier, mastering a language requires a certain amount of exposure. Depending on where you are in the world, finding someone to talk with using the English language can be challenging.

Fortunately, modern technologies have advanced so far that you can easily join large groups of people online with a few taps on your phone. Look for language groups on Discord or similar software, and you’ll definitely find native speakers eager to shoot the breeze with you.

Look for native speakers

Speaking of native speakers, it’s always preferable to look for someone who is a native speaker if you’re eager to practice your English skills. The reason why is simple — native speakers aren’t only good tutors, but they can also give you an insight into niche little details unique to their area or part of the world.

If you’re trying to lose an accent or become proficient in a particular type of slang, the best way to do so is to spend time talking to a native speaker.

Incorporate practice into your morning routine

Routines are important. They keep us on track and help us reach goals. A good morning routine is key to a healthy lifestyle. If you don’t have one, you should definitely look into making one. That being said, inserting English language practice into your morning routine is a great way to make those dull tasks fun and improve your skills at the same time.

Squeezing some English language practice between brushing your teeth and leaving for work is easy. You don’t have to go overboard. One thing you can do is listen to a podcast while you work out, or eat. Try to write down new words you hear and then look them up.

Always push yourself

Mastering a new means much more than becoming proficient. Proficiency will help you order food at a restaurant, or make small talk in the elevator. If you want to understand complex ideas and concepts, you’ll need to push yourself constantly.

Try to place yourself outside your comfort zone. If you feel that you know conversational English well enough, immerse yourself in technical writing. Look for articles that talk about a technical subject that interests you, like cars or music.

Record yourself

Okay, we understand that rarely anyone likes the sound of their own voice. However, recording yourself speaking English is a good way to recognise weaknesses and find out if you’re making any basic mistakes.

Try to use your full range of grammar and vocabulary as that is the only way to catch all potential mistakes.

Read books in English

Reading books in English is one of the oldest, but still effective ways to master the English language. Spoken and written English can be very different. Literary English brings a few rules that you won’t often find in conversational English. Reading books will help you recognize these changes and learn how to use them yourself.

Not to mention that reading books in their original language is always a better experience than reading a translation. If you’re into modern American or UK/AU/NZ literature, you’re in for a fun ride.

Read out loud

Last but not least, read out loud. Actually vocalizing each word as you read is a great way of practising your pronunciation while working on your vocabulary. You’ll find yourself getting stuck on specific words, which is a good thing.

That way you’ll know where you need to shift your practice to. More importantly, you can always write down words that give you trouble and review them later with a tutor or a native speaker you converse with.

Effort is key

At the end of the day, mastering the English language takes work. The more effort you put in, the better you’ll be at it. Expect things to get tough from time to time, but also know that every hurdle can be overcome with work and practice.

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