IELTS Vocabulary: 7 Tips to Boost Your Vocabulary

Jenn Author

Summary: 7 tips to ace IELTS vocabulary. Spoiler alert: no lists.

You know those "infamous vocabulary lists”, right?

Oh, those lists!

Often, I meet students with good intentions but lack a proper understanding of vocabulary or lexical range for the IELTS. They view it as a task to complete or a list of "X Band" words to memorize, leading to an incoherent approach.

Students tend to forget the importance of using words accurately. It is like meeting someone at a large gathering, exchanging names and small talk, only to forget their name a few days later when you see them again at the market. Can you relate?

Learning new vocabulary is like this scenario. Merely memorizing a list of words will not help you recall them quickly or understand how to use them. Why? Because you did not take the time to get to know them.

Let us start anew with vocabulary.

Here are 7 tips to assist you:

1. Consistency is key. Make it a habit to study daily, even for only 10 minutes. Consistency builds a strong foundation.

   
   

2. Use the words. It may seem simple, but it's essential to use new words in conversation to establish the connection in your brain.

   
   

3. Categorize new words. Get a notepad and write them down in categories such as food, travel, hobbies, and business. Categorization helps create mental associations and aids in the recall of new words.

   
   

4. Contextualize them. Never learn in isolation. Write a sentence that provides context to aid your understanding and memory. The Oxford Learner's Dictionary is a fantastic resource for crafting such sentences.

   
   

5. Flashcards are your friend. Create flashcards on paper or digitally using Quizlet. Be sure to include the word on one side with its definition and a contextual sentence on the other.

   
   

6. Connect the dots. Remember the person you met at the large gathering whom you met again in the market a few days later? Create a mind map for each new word, including their related words and collocations. This will help you remember not only the name of the word but also how you know it!

   
   

7. Get Personal. Develop a memorable phrase or image that links the English word to its translation in your native language. Personal associations make the learning experience more enjoyable and enhance your long-term retention.

So, can we reset our approach to vocabulary and develop a deeper connection with words? If you use these tips and stay focused on your goals, your lexical range and confidence will grow. Remember, vocabulary is not just a list to be ticked off but a living tool that empowers you in your journey to chart your IELTS success.

Categories: : IELTS, Vocabulary