Any language is sufficient for communication as long as your listener or reader knows the same language as yours. However, the English language is a significant one because it is the official language in 53 countries and is used by around 400 million people worldwide. It is also the most common second language.
This article suggests practical and interesting ways to make one optimally efficient at the English language.
Do not consider the English language a burden
Just like you eventually and effortlessly learn your native languages as you grow up, you can make the process of learning the English language a little interesting by ‘not’ considering it a burden. Stop thinking of it as a daunting ‘task’ that you have on your to-do list.
Carefully listen to English songs
It is not suggested to refer to songs for grammar but you can learn a good amount of new vocabulary, phrases, and idioms of the language while having fun. Begin with listening to the very popular English tracks. The Internet is full of resources for song lyrics and lyrical videos of English numbers, in case you wish to refer to them. Later you might as well want to sing those songs, in turn giving an edge to your spoken English.
Indulge in English language cinema
Online Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon or Disney + Hotstar, and now many TV channels too, stream or broadcast movies and series with subtitles in the English language for support. Thus, it is essential to indulge in movies, documentaries, or series in the English language. Surprisingly, after a while of practice, you’ll find yourself enjoying them.
Start conversing in English
Better start right now, make it a point to talk in the English language. Pick a friend, a family member, or anyone who is your ally. They will support you and might as well provide additional support in correcting your spoken English. It is natural to feel a little intimidated at first, but it will easily become an effortless activity once you practice it with zeal.
Read everything and anything from the surroundings while you travel every day
Try to do this for a few days. Read all the boards, hoardings, or even standees every time you go outside and travel to someplace. That gives you great exposure to everyday vocabulary.
Make an effort to read the menu every time you visit a restaurant or a salon.
Read 3 pages each day
Pick any book that you like in the English language and read at least 3 pages a day. Three pages is not a lot, you might be slow at reading at first but gradually your speed will increase.
Maintain a simple daily diary to practice writing
The easiest way to practice writing in the English language is to maintain a daily diary. At the end of each day, try to summarise your day, what you liked about the day and what you didn’t like, or if there was any new experience across the day. It need not be written in fancy vocabulary, humble expression of feelings will work.