Tips for Memorizing Vocabulary

Answer 1

By Jen Westmoreland Bouchard

Learning new vocabulary, whether in English or in another language, can be difficult. However, it’s an essential part of your college education. A large vocabulary that’s used correctly will serve you well in your professional life and beyond. So, how do you make sure all of this vocabulary sticks for the test and beyond? Here are some tried and true tips to help you in your studying process.

• Use flashcards. Flashcards are a great way to review vocabulary. If you are memorizing vocabulary for a foreign language class, write the foreign language term on one side of the card and the English word on the other side of the card. If you are memorizing English vocabulary, write the definition of the word (or a synonym) on one side of the card and the English vocabulary term on the other. You can have a friend or study partner quiz you on the vocabulary using these flashcards as the test approaches.
• Use the word in context. Most people need to use a term over and over in context for it to stick. There are several ways to do this. One way is to write sentences using the word in context. Another way is to include the new vocabulary in writing assignments you’re doing for other classes. You can also try to slip the word into your daily conversations. This is easier if you are memorizing words in English. If you are memorizing words in another language, attend a conversation group and use them there. If your school does not have a conversation group for the language you study, consider starting one.
• Pay attention to the part of speech/grammar the word belongs to. Is the word a noun or verb? If it is a noun, what is the plural form? If it is a verb, how is it conjugated? These grammatical elements will help you to use the word correctly in context.
• Look for cognates or familiar prefixes/suffixes. Examining the make-up of a word can help you understand it and learn it better. When learning foreign language vocabulary, look for cognates (words that resemble words in English and have similar meanings, like fôret in French and forest in English). Common prefixes and suffixes like pre- or post- can also give you an indication as to what the word means.
• Keep using it. Once the day of the test has passed, make sure you keep this word “in circulation” in your writing and conversations so that you don’t forget it.

Answer 2

1. Use flashcards: Write the word on one side and the definition on the other. Review the flashcards regularly to reinforce your memory.
2. Create associations: Link new words with something you already know or create a mental image to help you remember the meaning.
3. Practice with context: Use the new vocabulary in sentences or conversations to understand how it's used in context, which will make it easier to remember.
4. Repeat and review: Regularly revisit and review the vocabulary you've learned to reinforce your memory and prevent forgetting.