Do you want to study abroad but English is not your mother tongue? If English is not your mother tongue, you must take an English language proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL as part of your study abroad application. These tests may seem simple, but learning to write and speak effectively in a new language is not easy. To be successful in learning a new language, you need to constantly strive. We have compiled the most effective ways to learn English for you. Happy reading!
1. Watching TV series in English
Watching series; it helps you understand the language better, get used to the spoken language, ways of speaking and indirectly get an idea about the language. Also, exposure to a language throughout the show can really help you start thinking in English.
2. Reading newspapers and magazines in English
Newspapers and magazines will expand your vocabulary as well as help you stay up to date with current events. Another advantage is that it makes it easier for you to understand how words are written and used.
3. Keeping a vocabulary notebook of important words.
Start making a list of useful words and phrases, whether in a notebook or on your computer. When you hear or see a word you don't know, write it down. Don't just focus on the word itself, but also search for synonyms and phrases in which it's used.
4. Making conversations in English
You should use English interactively and practice regularly to improve your speaking skills. It will be very beneficial for you to exercise with a native speaker or learner of English. Another option is to talk to yourself in the mirror and record your voice. Listening to your own voice may sound a little strange at first, but it allows you to hear and correct mistakes you weren't aware of before.
5. Being curious and asking questions often
You have to ask and solve a lot of questions to improve quickly. Don't just read the sentences. Ask why they are used a certain way, if other constructs are possible, and don't trust everything you read online!
6. Not forgetting to have fun while learning
If learning English seems like a burden to you, you may not be able to perform well in this field. That's why it's important to stay motivated and enjoy a new language learning experience. In this process, you can find games that will increase your critical thinking skills. In this way, you can have fun and learn at the same time.
Obviously, learning a new language is a long-term project and you can't start from scratch and write an academic paper a week later. However, when you build on a good foundation and dedicate yourself heavily, you can quickly achieve great results.
Especially for exams like IELTS, you really need to know what questions to ask, what the formats look like and how to tackle the related tasks. It may be better for you to focus and try to improve certain parts, rather than trying to get everything crazy at once.
Have fun learning English!