When it comes to learning how to speak English, the most practical and efficient way is studying consistently with a tutor online. While that may be the priority for most of us learning a new language, you can give yourself an advantage by practicing your writing, grammar, and vocabulary skills as well. The good news is that there are tons of available resources that offer English exercises to help you practice. As you read on to discover what types of English exercises are available, keep in mind your preferred learning style. Do you enjoy writing with a pen and paper, or would you rather pull out your phone and use an app? There’s something for everybody, so let’s get started.

English Exercises to Build Vocabulary

Did you know that if you learned just 1.75% of the words in an English dictionary (assuming you learn the most common ones) you’d be able to understand 95% of what you read on a regular basis? How motivating is that?! Here are some English exercises to start building your vocabulary today.

Memorizing Words

I know that spending all your time memorizing lists of words doesn’t sound like tons of fun, and it can seem daunting if you’re trying to reach a goal of 1500 words or so. Consistency is key, so start small by learning 10 words a day and working your way up from there if you feel comfortable. Here are some tips to improve memorization:

1. Read this list of tips to improve your overall memory.
2. Write words down as you memorize them. This improves your chances of retaining the new words, and as an added bonus, helps with spelling as well!
3. Say it out loud! Hearing yourself say the words is different than just thinking them in your head.
4. Find a study buddy - in person or online

English Exercises With Language Apps

There are some great apps out there offering English exercises to help you improve your speaking, grammar, and vocabulary. Duolingo is one of the most popular apps available for learning English and any other language, for that matter- it feels more like a game and offers rewards for success and consistency. Memrise is another one that receives consistently high ratings, and for good reason: it’s sole purpose is to help you memorize those words on your list! For a more in depth look at some of these apps, check out Chapter 6: English Apps.

Exercises to Improve English Grammar

When you begin learning English, it’s always important to keep your goals in mind. Most of us want to become fluent, and when we think of that, it’s usually in a conversational context. We want to learn to speak our target language, but don’t put a lot of thought into into grammar, reading or writing. It must be said: without a proper foundation in the essentials like grammar, you will find yourself struggling to master some of the more advanced speaking concepts as well. To improve your grammar, check out some of our favorite textbooks and online resources.

Textbooks With English Grammar Exercises

Some of you (like myself) might laugh if you think back to the last time you used a textbook, but there’s something to be said for holding a book in your hands (your Kindle doesn’t count!), feeling its weight, and absorbing its knowledge. Here are a few of our favorite textbooks containing the best English exercises.Practical English UsageMichael Swan’s book can’t be missed if you’re learning English. It was written specifically for ESL learners, and focuses on grammar but throws in some pronunciation and vocabulary help too.1100 Words You Need To KnowThis book is great because if you can tackle the task of mastering the 1100 words in the book, you’re well on your way to English fluency. This book also offers exercises so you can practice what you’ve studied!Cambridge English Pronouncing DictionaryA good dictionary is a must have for anyone learning a new language, but this one's special - not only do you get the definitions for all the new words you’re learning, but guidance on how to properly pronounce them!

Improve Your English Writing Skills

Practicing your English writing skills can be beneficial in more ways than one! Not only does it help you become more comfortable expressing yourself in English, but it helps you with spelling, vocabulary, and retention. Here are some places to start practicing your writing in English now!

1. Write in your diary.
2. Track your thoughts in apps like Notes
3. Start a personal blog with Wordpress.
4. Use Hello Talk and Whatsapp to connect with native speakers and communicate in English.

Not sure what to write about? It’s always easy to start with ideas or events that matter to you; you can write about your life, important friends or family members, hobbies that interest you, or a great book you recently read. Anything you write about counts as a great English exercise you can do to improve your writing.Don’t forget - like we mentioned earlier, everybody learns differently. You might love apps like Duolingo but feel totally overwhelmed with a huge textbook, and that’s ok! There is no one method that works for everybody, and half the battle is finding out what works best for you![mashshare]

Chapter List

1. Why Learn English? 2. Where to Learn English?3. English Blogs4. English Podcasts5. English Youtube Channels6. Best English Learning Apps7. Most Common English Words8. English Exercises 9. English Lessons10. English For Kids11. English For Business