Seeking Advice: What Are the Best Resources to Boost My English Vocabulary?

Dear Seniors, I can speak, write, and understand English well. However, I would like to improve my English language skills, particularly my vocabulary. Could you please suggest some good materials, magazines, or any other resources that could help me enhance my English language proficiency?

With Regards,
Mr. Bharat

Improving English Language Skills

English news channels and word games are easily available on the internet. Try to read English newspapers; The Tribune is best for that. Always try to think in English and carry a pocket dictionary for immediate reference.

Mr. A Jacob has provided you with a nice guideline; just follow it eagerly. However, I would like to add one more thing: create a story in your mother tongue, visualize it, and create mental images about it. Then, incorporate some relevant English words into your story. By doing this, you will understand what I am trying to convey—you will never forget those words.

Thanks & Regards,
Devendra

I agree with the above posts, although I would strongly recommend against the Tribune or other US newspapers unless you wish to learn US English, which has very different grammar and spelling compared to UK English (which I believe is the English of India). The Daily Telegraph offers a weekly summary newspaper service—the best articles from the last seven days—very good and reasonably priced. Another suggestion is to pick up a copy of The Economist regularly—very astute political and state-of-the-world articles. Finally, buy a book of crossword puzzles (start with easy ones at first, then progress to more difficult ones as you improve)—I can remember learning French at school and being given the crosswords from Paris Match—it makes you think!

Good luck,

Roger Stent

"Word Power Made Easy" by Norman Lewis will help you improve your English language skills. I have used this book and found it to be very effective.

Thanks & Regards,
Ajit Kumar

I agree with Ajit. "Word Power Made Easy" by Norman Lewis is a good and practical way to improve English, apart from other suggestions mentioned above. The main advantage is that with one word, you can, on average, master ten words, as the book uses the taproot of the word concerned, etc. I used it in my third year of my engineering course to improve my English, and it works!

There is no point in just buying it; WE MUST READ AT LEAST ONE HOUR PER DAY. In 21 days, you can see a difference in yourself (if you were reading at least one hour per day). You can supplement this by listening to English channels as suggested.

Happy Learning!

Regards,
J. Srinivasan