3. Memorize a phrase with the word in it


Maybe you are thinking, "What?! Now you want me to memorize MORE words?!"

Yes.

If you memorize a whole sentence (even a short phrase will do), you are creating a context (see point #2) and story that go along with your word. You will be more likely to remember the word this way.

Let's take the word 'tussle'. It has a weird spelling and let's say it isn't related to any other words we already know. You can:

A. Just look the word up in the dictionary, write in on your vocabulary list (which you need to THROW away - see point #1) and DONE. But you probably won't remember the word this way.

OR

B. You can make up a sentence with the word in it:
The two sisters got into a huge tussle over who could wear the pink shirt.
(Imagine hair-pulling, screaming, shoes being thrown, etc..)

...you can use an even shorter phrase:

A huge tussle
(Easy words, easy to remember!...but still remember to imagine shoes being thrown and hair-pulling!

B. is the better choice because you will be more likely to remember the word in context and within an interesting story.


4. Repeat the word. Repeat the word. Repeat the word.

Read over the new word 10 times.
Say the word 10 times.

Write the word down 5 times.
Say the word out loud 5 times.

Look at yourself in a mirror while saying the word. 

Say the word in a loud voice, a quiet voice, a funny voice, etc.

Better yet, do all these repetition exercises with the WHOLE sentence that you made up with your words in it:

...the sisters got into a huge tussle...THE SISTERS GOT INTO A HUGE TUSSLE...the sisters got into a huge tussle...


5. Use the word in real life

.Remembering to practice using new words and phrases was one of the study tips

Try using your new word in your real, daily life: Use the new word with your friends. Try it out in different sentences. Use it in an email to a friend or co-worker. Post on a blog and use the word. 

Find a way to practice in real life and use your new or difficult word.