When you decide to learn a new language, we know that it can be frustrating when trying to remember new words. That is perfectly natural and normal. However, you can incorporate some language-learning techniques to make this process easier.

In this beginner’s guide, you will discover seven easy ways to improve your language-learning experience and make the most of each time you grab a coffee and try to learn some vocabulary. Keep reading!

How does memory work? 

Before looking into the language-learning techniques, it’s helpful to understand how memory works. Memory is a very complex system involving multiple processes that work together to encode, store, and retrieve information. 

The process of memorising begins with the conversion of information into a form that the brain can process and store. Once the information is encoded, it is moved to ‘storage’ where it is held for later retrieval. But if it is that simple, why can’t you remember all the information you ever received? 

Science says that memory has several types, including sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory. So, if you want to remember new words, you need them to transition from short-term to long-term. 

This process is called consolidation and is influenced by factors such as repetition, emotional significance and – believe it or not – sleep!

To set something straight: here, at Coffee Break Languages, we believe that you can learn a language at any age and if you have trouble remembering new vocabulary, having some language-learning techniques is incredibly beneficial. 

7 language-learning techniques to remember new words

Learning a language from scratch is a process that needs dedication because it requires repetition and time, but aren’t all things that are worthwhile? You can achieve this more easily by using certain language-learning techniques. 

Let’s check out seven of these techniques:

1. Create your own list of words

One effective way to remember new words is by creating your own personalised vocabulary list. Keep a notebook or digital document where you can put down words you encounter during your language-learning journey. 

Our top tip: with each new word you note down, include any other key information that you need to know. For example, if you’re learning Spanish or any language that features noun gender, you could write una casa instead of simply casa, so that you remember that house in Spanish is a feminine noun. Or, maybe you’d write down partire (aux. essere) if you were learning Italian and needed to remember that the verb to leave in Italian takes essere as the auxiliary verb in the perfect tense.

You could also organise the list by categories or themes to make it easier to review and practise regularly.

2. Create mnemonics

Another good language-learning technique is creating mnemonics – associations between new words and familiar concepts. This type of memory aid helps you associate new information with existing knowledge. 

One idea is to create a sentence to help you with terms you recently learned, making them easier to recall later. You can group them by topics. 

For example, if you’re learning French, you may have come across the useful mnemonic DR and MRS VANDERTRAMP. This is a popular one to use to help you remember the verbs that use être as an auxiliary verb in the perfect tense:

D (devenir) R (rester) M (monter) R (rentrer) S (sortir) V (venir) A (aller) N (naître) D (descendre) E (entrer) R (revenir) T (tomber) R (retourner) A (arriver) M (mourir) P (partir) 

3. Repeat, repeat, and repeat 

Repetition is key to solidifying new vocabulary in your memory. So, one good language-learning technique is to try to remember new words within a timeframe. For example, you can try to remember new vocabulary after: 

• one hour;
• a day;
• and a week.

For example, you can think of five of your new words while brushing your teeth, walking to the shops or going for your train. Then you can try to write them down the next day when you have five mins spare and so on!

4. Use flashcards

Flashcards are one of the classic language-learning techniques to memorise vocabulary. You can write the new words you learn in one of your lessons on one side and their translation or definition on the other side.

You can ask someone to ‘test’ your knowledge of the meaning of each word. You can also use digital flashcard apps like Brainscape or Quizlet for convenience.

5. Name objects around you

Another effective technique is to create an environment where you are constantly seeing the new vocabulary you are learning. By exposing yourself to the language in various contexts, you’ll naturally reinforce your understanding of new words. 

For example, if you are learning new kitchen vocabulary, you can add sticky notes around the room to name the fridge, sink, cupboards, stove, and so on in the language you are learning.

Another great habit to get into is to use your surroundings as a prompt for recalling vocabulary, so that you can practise whenever and wherever you are. Watch the video below for our top tips for doing this.

6. Try the stacking method

The stacking method involves grouping similar words to help you remember them more effectively. Create word clusters based on common themes or sounds and practise recalling them as a group. 

The stacking method differs from simply organising your vocabulary list into themes because it emphasises active recall and association-building. Rather than passively reviewing words grouped by theme, you actively engage with them as interconnected clusters, which enhances memory consolidation and retrieval. 

Whether you choose to do this mentally or with a notepad depends on your personal preference and learning style. Some learners may find it helpful to physically write them down for reinforcement.

For example, you can identify travel-related words in French, such as avion plane, hôtel hotel and valise suitcase. After that, the clusters you can create based on associations can be related to holidays. Then you can visualise each cluster: you are in an airport, boarding an avion, arriving at your hôtel and unpacking your valise.

So, the stacking method helps you organise and remember vocabulary more effectively by grouping related words and practising recall in a structured way.

7. ‘Teach’ others

Of all the language-learning techniques, teaching others is amongst the most powerful ones. Why? Well, because in order to teach someone you need to actually understand what you are talking about. 

If you can, try to share your language-learning journey with friends or family by explaining the meanings of words or teaching them simple phrases. Teaching others not only helps you retain information better but also helps you feel accomplished and confident in your language skills.

Word memorisation techniques boost your language learning!

Now you know how to remember new words, right? After all, by incorporating these language-learning techniques into your study routine, you can improve your retention of new vocabulary. 

Moreover, remember to take breaks and rest – sleep is very important to build memory. Learning a new language takes time, patience, and consistent effort, so don’t be discouraged by occasional forgetfulness.

Keep practising, experimenting with different methods, and celebrating your progress – however large or small it may be.

If you want to make the most of your language learning and have some regular lessons, in the language of your choice, to help reinforce your language learning, check out our free mini-email lessons. Subscribe now!