Vocabulary Memorization Tricks

Sometimes in order to remember a new vocabulary word you need to tie it to something that will help you recall it. A trick used by ancient and medieval scholars is to invent some strange or unusual image, a pun on some oddball phrase in English, a popular song; anything.

The more bizarre the better. When you need to recall that word, very often you can use the image or wordplay or whatever you've mentally attached to that word as a way to access it.

With a little practice, it's remarkable how effectively you can use this technique to recall otherwise unfamiliar words.

Gradually, you'll learn to remember the new words without the need to use the memory aid.

How to Study

1. Do small amounts, very often.

• Three focused 15-minute study times per day, not one two-hour session.


• Don’t try to memorize fifty words in one sitting; try six or eight words.


• Recognize when you are overloading your brain, and back off.


• Go back and repeat things often to reinforce what you’ve already learned.

2. Find ways to make memorization part of your daily routine.

• Tape vocabulary lists to your mirror or on the wall next to your bed.


• Study vocab while waiting in line at the caf.


• Recite words and phrases to yourself while working out or in the shower.


• Make vocab lists appear every time you start your computer.

3. Get as many senses as possible actively involved. Don’t just look at the words and think that you’re learning them.

• Say the words aloud.


• Listen to the words.


• Write the words down.


• Visualize the object or action that the word represents.


• Make up a song containing the words.

4. Put the words in a context.

• Make them part of a phrase or sentence.


• Group them with other similar words.


• Connect the words with an English derivative or cognate.


• Use any crazy associations your brain creates.