Strategies for Improving Your PTE Academic Vocabulary

1. Understanding PTE Academic Vocabulary

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic is a comprehensive test that assesses a candidate’s proficiency in the English language. A key component of this test is vocabulary, where a candidate’s understanding of a wide range of English words and phrases is evaluated. Vocabulary is crucial in all components of the test – reading, writing, listening and speaking.

However, many candidates struggle with improving their vocabulary because it is not something that can be improved overnight. It necessitates consistent and informed effort over time. Hence, the first strategy towards improving PTE academic vocabulary is to understand the relevance and functionality of vocabulary in the English language and its importance in the PTE academic test.

2. Reading regularly

The strategy of reading regularly cannot be overstated enough. It is the most natural and effective way of learning and cementing new words in your memory. It exposes you to a wide range of words used in diverse contexts and helps you grasp the meaning and usage of words. All test questions in the Rise PTE online course are taking from authentic academic sources while ensuring adequate diversity.

Reading does not have to be restricted to textbooks or academic material. It can be extended to novels, newspapers, journals, articles and online content. The more varied your reading material, the broader would be your scope of learning new vocabulary.

3. Making a vocabulary list

One practical approach towards accelerating your vocabulary learning is to create a vocabulary list. As you read, jot down new words and their meanings in a notebook or digital platform, such as a Word document or excel sheet. It helps you to refer back to these words and practise their usage.

A vocabulary list also allows you to track your progress. It serves as a tangible reinforcement of your efforts in improving your vocabulary and motivates you to keep adding to the list.

4. Learning synonyms

Synonyms lay the groundwork for a robust vocabulary. Understanding synonyms expands your choice of words in expressing a thought or viewpoint. It also enhances your reading comprehension as it allows you to understand the context of various texts.

Learning synonyms requires dividing your vocabulary list into themes or categories. By doing so, you not only learn new terms, but you also learn their appropriate usage in different contexts.

5. Using flashcards

Flashcards are another useful strategy to boost your vocabulary. They serve as a quick and convenient method to revise and test your learning. One side of the card contains the word, while the other portrays the meaning or synonyms. By using flashcards, you can test your memory and reinforce your learning.

Flashcards can be used during your leisure time. Their usage can be made more interesting by having a partner to assist you or by using digital flashcards, which are available on various online platforms.

6. Word association

Word association is a method of associating or connecting a new term to a word, image, situation, or concept that you are already familiar with. It helps you remember the word and its meaning more effectively.

For instance, if you’re attempting to remember the word ‘verbose,’ you could associate it with a person you know who speaks excessively. This technique boosts memory recall, thus ensuing that the word is imprinted in your long-term memory.

7. Learning collocations

Collocations refer to the way in which some words tend to occur together more often. Understanding collocations not only helps to expand your vocabulary but also enhances your fluency and language proficiency.

For instance, ‘take a shower’ or ‘do homework’ are examples of collocations. In order to master these, you can list down such commonly occurring word pairs or groups during your reading practice and then use them in your writing and speaking practice.

8. Using the new words

The famous maxim, “Practice makes perfect” holds especially true when it comes to learning new vocabulary. Make a conscious effort to use the new words that you learn in your daily conversation, writing, or while thinking. This will not only enhance your memory recall but also improve your confidence in using unfamiliar words.

Understanding a word and its meaning is generally the first step. However, the learning process is incomplete unless you have used the word in context. The regular usage of new words will help you grasp its sense and context, thus augmenting your vocabulary gradually.

9. Daily revision

Daily revision is essential in retaining the words’ meanings and usage you already learned. Without revision, there is a chance that you could forget the new words. This is why daily revision of the vocabulary list or flashcards can help maintain continuity in learning.

Try and set a specific time of the day for revision, ideally just before bed. Many studies have shown that information studied this way is better retained. Regular revision ensures that the learnt words never fade away from your memory.

10. Mobile apps and online resources

Thanks to technology, there are numerous mobile applications and online resources that can aid in your vocabulary learning. You can use vocabulary builder apps that provide word of the day features, flashcards, quizzes, interactive games and more. These digital platforms make learning fun and easy.

Similarly, there are multiple online dictionaries and thesaurus websites, which not only provide meanings of words but also their synonyms, antonyms and usage examples. Therefore, utilising such resources can significantly aid your vocabulary learning process in preparation for the PTE Academic test.