The secret to learning English? Think like a gardener
Have you ever tried to water a plant by giving it two weeks’ worth of water in one go? It doesn’t work – the soil can’t absorb the water and the plant drowns. Your brain is the same when you are learning English. Feeding it a little bit of English a few times a week is much more effective than doing hours of study all at once.
Why short, regular study sessions work
Research shows that short, frequent study sessions are more effective for your memory than spending hours every now and then. Spending just 10–20 minutes every day, or even three times a week, can lead to significant improvements in your English proficiency. Your brain needs time to process new information so doing a small amount then taking a break allows it to incorporate what you’ve learned.
So how can you make sure you when you study English, you remember what you’ve learnt? Keep reading…
Tips to maximise your learning
Engage actively: Instead of passively reading your notes or watching TV series, challenge your brain. Test yourself on new vocabulary, practice pronunciation by saying phrases aloud and write example sentences without referring to your notes.
Find enjoyable methods: Learning should be inspiring. Whether it's listening to podcasts, studying alongside a friend or working through a book, choose methods that you enjoy!
Make sure there’s variety: Keep things interesting by mixing in grammar exercises, vocabulary reviews, speaking practice and reading etc. This makes learning more interesting and also reinforces different language skills.
Reflect on your goals: Why are you learning English? Keeping your objectives in mind – reading literature in its original language, understanding expert tutorials or accessing research – will keep you motivated and focused.
Start today
Don’t wait for the perfect moment, begin with a small step today. Listen to a short podcast, note down a few sentences or learn a handful of new words. Consistent, small efforts will lead to significant progress over time. Here are 12 quick activities that you can start using today.
Remember, think like a gardener: feed your brain with regular practice a little at a time and you'll see your English ability grow and your confidence blossom.
