How to Memorize Foreign Language Vocabulary

Step 1
Make a two-column list of new words for each new lesson.

Step 2
Include words that aren't in the textbook lesson: words you may pick up from your teacher or from native
speakers.

Step 3
Study vocabulary by covering one column as you move down the other.

Step 4
Cover the other column and go through the list again. Repeat.

Step 5
Review older vocabulary every few days.

Step 6
Review again and often! Without review, your newly acquired vocab will fast become your newly forgotten vocab and, later, your long-forgotten vocab.

Step 7
Integrate review into your daily routine so that it no longer seems like a burden.

Step 8
Find a native speaker to talk with or, better yet, visit a place where the language is spoken. Vocabulary won't truly stick until you're forced to speak the language a lot.