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How to Improve Your Academic English Quickly
Thandiwe Mokoena
- 9 January 2024
- Comment 4
Good academic English starts with reading. Pick one article from your course reader each day and underline every word you do not know. Look each word up and write a sentence of your own.
Next, write a little every day. Even 150 words about what you learned that day helps. Send a paragraph to the Studiepoort writing desk and ask for feedback on grammar and structure.
Short, clear sentences win marks. Fix one habit at a time and your writing will improve. Thandiwe Mokoena, Academic Writing LecturerFinish by reading your work aloud. Your ear will catch missing words and sentences that run too long. Our Academic English Writing and Grammar course is free and works well on a phone.
How to build your vocabulary
Keep a small notebook for new academic words. Write the word, what it means and one sentence from your own subject. Review five words every morning before you open the student portal. After two weeks you will start using them without thinking.
Practise a little every day
Ten minutes of daily writing beats one long session before a deadline. Rewrite one paragraph from an old assignment, then compare the two versions. Ask a friend or your tutor to point out repeated mistakes, and fix those first.
Naledi Mahlangu
I enjoyed this post. Very helpful article! The tips on planning around due dates made my week much easier.
Bongani Zulu
Thank you for your kind words! Glad to hear you found the tips useful. Your support means a lot to us. Thanks!
Ravi Naidoo
Useful blog for students. Clear advice on studying online and staying on top of assignments. Practical tips that I could use the same day. Well done!
Chantelle Adams
Helpful study advice! This blog explains exam preparation and online learning in plain language, which is great for first-years and matric learners alike. Thanks!