Final answer:
Improving vocabulary is best achieved by reading widely, using resources like dictionaries, creating flashcards, keeping lists of new or difficult words, and practicing using words in context. Option a is correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the best ways to improve your vocabulary is to read widely and diversely. This means exploring various genres and sources such as books, magazines, newspapers, and blogs. These platforms will expose you to new vocabulary and assist in expanding your word knowledge.
Utilize resources like a dictionary to look up unfamiliar words. Keeping the Oxford English Dictionary open while reading encourages you to investigate unknown terms.
- Create flashcards for troublesome words. Not only for those you frequently use in your essays and have difficulty spelling, but also for new vocabulary.
- Maintain a vocabulary list at the end of your notebook for quick reference and review. Include commonly misspelled words and those you often get confused.
- When writing, opt for plain, direct words unless you are confident about their meanings. If you encounter a vaguely familiar word, ensure its correct usage by consulting a dictionary. This habit also helps to build your vocabulary.
- When preparing for a test, flashcards are a great tool to organize and retain information, as they can be sorted into categories and topics for easier review.
Reading out loud, such as a poem, and looking up at least 10 words for their meanings and nuances, can be an insightful exercise to understand language better and improve word retention.
Besides reading, when it comes to writing, make sure to always double-check any word that might be confusing or incorrect. This is especially important when you can't look up the word; it is safer to use another word you are confident about.