Learn words in phrases, meet them in reading, review them on a spaced schedule and use them in your own speaking and writing. Memorising long lists of single words is the least effective method.
1. Learn phrases, not single words
Native speakers use words in predictable combinations, called collocations: make a decision, heavy traffic, strongly disagree. Learning the combination teaches you how to use the word correctly, and examiners in tests like IELTS reward exactly that.
2. Read more than you think you need to
Most vocabulary is learned from reading. Choose material slightly above your level: articles, short stories, explanations of topics you enjoy. If you understand about 90–95% of the words, the rest can often be guessed from context.
3. Keep a smart notebook
For each new word, write:
- The word in a phrase or sentence from where you found it
- Its meaning in simple English
- Your own sentence using it
Your own sentence is the most important part. It moves the word from recognition to use.
4. Review on a schedule
You forget most new words within days unless you review them. Look at new words again after one day, then after a few days, then after a week or two. Flashcard apps that use spaced repetition do this scheduling for you.
5. Use new words within 24 hours
Say a new phrase aloud, write it in a message, use it in class. A word you have used three times is far more likely to stay.
6. Learn word families
When you learn decide, learn decision, decisive and indecisive too. Word families multiply your vocabulary with little extra effort.
What to avoid
- Long lists of "advanced" words used without understanding
- Translating every word instead of guessing from context first
- Learning words you will never need
Children can build vocabulary in a fun, structured way too. Our Vocabulary Quest course for kids is built on the same principles.
See our English Language courses: Basic, Intermediate and Advanced.
Frequently asked questions
What is the fastest way to improve English vocabulary?
Read regularly at a slightly challenging level, learn words in phrases, review them on a spaced schedule and use them yourself within a day.
How many new words should I learn a day?
Quality matters more than quantity. Five to ten words you review and use is better than fifty you forget.
Do vocabulary lists help for IELTS?
Only a little. Examiners reward accurate, natural use of words, which comes from learning words in context and practising them.
What are collocations?
Words that naturally go together, such as make a decision or heavy rain. Learning them makes your English sound more natural.
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- All IELTS, SAT & English guides →
Written by the Learning Bubble teaching team. If something here does not match your situation, ask us. We would rather give you a straight answer than have you guess.