Part 1: The Best English Study Plan (Valera’s Guide) This is, | Freshman Academy

Part 1: The Best English Study Plan (Valera’s Guide)

This is, perhaps, one of the most popular questions that I receive from you, guys. As you may know, I am a big fan of personalized planning. However, there are still a few general points that will be helpful to consider before creating a study plan. I will split all the insights collected in many years of studying and teaching in several parts, so you can better digest it all.

• Overestimating your abilities
Numerous studies in psychology have shown that people tend to underestimate the amount of time necessary to complete a task. Similarly, students tend to create overambitious plans that they are highly unlikely to follow. The result is, sadly, very predictable: you cannot keep up with the pace and give up on your plan, while getting really frustrated with your abilities. Remember that consistency is the key here, so make plans that are – first and foremost – achievable.

• Writing skills
Writing, at least in the Post-Soviet region, is one of the most overlooked areas when it comes to learning English. Improving your writing usually comes down to two main activities: (a) writing as much as possible, and (b) getting professional feedback so that you can sharpen your skills. Writing more will not only advance your speaking skills but will also help you organize your thoughts better. So, I strongly recommend you focus more on it.

• Vocabulary
I know that some teachers oppose the idea of having a notebook where you write down your new words. Honestly, I do understand their concern: a good intuition for vocabulary is usually very contextual. Therefore, I suggest you include both a translation and a few examples of word usage, so you develop more of that contextual intuition. Learn as much vocab as you can! Ask your friends and family to test you on your vocabulary knowledge.

Stay tuned for more insights on study planning!

Best,
Valera