Not being proficient in English can be a problem if you are planning to study abroad. It can affect not only day-to-day activities but the very prospect of getting admission to foreign universities can be nearly impossible if you don’t have a grip over English as it will be the medium of instruction. As it is a global language it is important anyone who aspires to grow higher in academics and career is fluent in it. If you are planning to go abroad to study, here are a few ways to improve your English.

1. Start watching English shows and movies

The best way to learn any language is to hear it from native speakers. It will get you a better grip over its pronunciation, usage, and context. Watching English movies and shows is an interesting way to learn the language. Unlike online classes and watching lecture videos, this can be watched with enthusiasm. Find the shows that quip your interest and start watching them. Understand the words used, write down the new words and their meanings and identify in which context it is being used. Once you are familiar with the language and phrases, you can easily speak them like any native speaker.

2. Keep a vocabulary journal

Keep a journal to note down new words along with their meanings. Also, write down a sentence using that word so that you can get a hold of the contexts where the word can be used. Make this a daily activity and also find time to go through the old words written and try to frame more sentences with them. Try to apply these words in your conversations or writing so that you don’t forget them later.

3. Speaking is important

You can read and listen as much as you like. But to speak is something else. If you want to be thorough in a language, you should practice speaking. It could be with your friend, parents, siblings or teachers. Try to speak in English and correct the mistakes when you note them. Don’t be shy to speak in English and be afraid that you might make mistakes. That is the biggest hurdle. Boost your self-confidence and start the task. Even if someone points out any mistake, welcome it, remember it next time you speak, and rectify it. But never let that stop you from speaking in English.

4. Listen to podcasts and English news

Listening to podcasts and English news channels can be tremendously helpful. It is a method that is recommended by all English language experts and trainers. You might find it hard to understand at first, but try to listen to the same with the help of translations or subtitles. It can be more effective. There are several podcasts available these days which are run by native English speakers. There are podcasts on several topics, so you can choose the topic of your choice and then listen to it. It will help you in the long run as it can help you understand your classes better.

 5. Carry a bilingual dictionary

It is better to carry a bilingual dictionary so that you can learn in a better and fast-paced way. Whenever you have a doubt regarding a word, you can quickly check up on the word and retain it in your memory.

6. Try to surround yourself with English speakers

Acquaint yourself with English speakers and learn the most from them. Understand how they speak, the intonations, pronunciation, etc, and try to embrace it. Adopt the right style and try to converse with them in English. They can clear your doubts, guide you, and teach you much about the language. And the more you converse and practice in English, the better you will be at the language. It is also a chance to grow as a speaker and get better at it. It will also help you gather the courage to speak out and make engagements once you start studying abroad. It can be a quick step at making acquaintances on campus without being scared or apprehensive of the same.

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7. Try labeling things

Carry labels and write down the names of things in your house. Stick the labels on the objects. It is one way of learning the names of everyday things. It will remind you of the names of the objects every time you take and use the object. Slowly start extending the same towards other objects. This is an ideal place for the low learners to start from. Getting the everyday things right is very important as you soon will be relocating to a different country and you will have to manage everything alone. So you can’t be missing out on the basic things. Make this a habit and get your game going.

Contact Sage Education to learn more about the best ways to improve your English before going abroad to study.