The 10 Easiest Ways to Learn English

The easiest ways to learn English

There are many different ways to learn English, some easier than others. Unfortunately, learning a language well is not an easy process, and generally the easiest methods give the least satisfying results.

The easiest way to learn English at home in your own time is to use an app. However, apps often focus on vocabulary and rely heavily on translation, which has its limits. If you'd rather avoid technology, self-study books are another easy option: you can work at your own pace and learn much more than vocabulary.

Both approaches match your level, so you can use them even as a complete beginner. Watching series and films or reading books, newspapers and blogs in English is another easy and enjoyable way to learn, although it works best for higher-level learners.

10 ways to speak English fluently

First, be clear about what "fluently" means. It doesn't mean "perfectly"; it means speaking without lots of hesitation, in a natural way. You can speak fluently and still make occasional mistakes.

Find someone you feel comfortable speaking with, ideally with a stronger level than you. It doesn't need to be a native speaker; it's more important that you get on well and have things to talk about.
Talk about a range of different topics.
Talk in different ways: give opinions, make plans, reach agreements, tell stories and jokes, give presentations.
Don't worry about mistakes. They help you learn, and worrying about them makes you slower and more hesitant.
Work on your pronunciation with feedback from a teacher.
Set aside time every week for speaking practice.
Listen to other people talking. The more familiar you are with spoken English, the more confident you'll be.
Learn set phrases: combinations of words that go together, such as idioms and common expressions.
Do a little, but regularly.
Practise, practise, practise!

How can I learn English fast by myself?

Apps are the most convenient way to study on your own, and you can make good progress quickly. However, they give you limited conversation practice and are less useful at higher levels.

How can I learn English naturally?

The best way is to spend a lot of time in an English-speaking environment. By listening and reading all the time, you get a feel for what sounds natural. Even if you can't live in an English-speaking country, you can surround yourself with English books, programmes, films and podcasts.

How can I speak faster?

Ask yourself why you need to speak faster. Speaking quickly isn't necessarily better: it often leads to more mistakes. It's usually better to take your time and get your message across. The more you practise, the faster and more natural you'll become.

Where can I learn English with ILC?

ILC has English schools in Birmingham, Britain's second-largest city; historic Colchester; Cambridge, a world-famous centre of education; creative Bristol; and Portsmouth by the sea. Explore our English courses, including IELTS and Cambridge exam preparation.