Iteration


Let's say you hear a new song on the radio. The first time it is played, you have no idea what it is. After a few times of hearing it, you find yourself humming or even singing along. This is because iteration is a very effective way of making information stay in your memory, and this includes words.

When learning a new word, you need to hear it at least 20 times for it to be included in your vocabulary. You can do this by saying the word out loud to yourself, or by using a vocabulary software program to say the word to you periodically.

Iteration leads to learning

The more times you repeat the word, the better your chances are of really learning it and including it in your long-term memory. To increase the success of word iteration, it is also good if you list down some of the words that are unfamiliar to you. Each day, bring out your list and read the words out loud. Again, many vocabulary software programs offer tools for you to do this. Another helpful practice is to insert your new words into your daily conversations, both written and oral.

Ultimate Vocabulary – Word Messenger

Ultimate Vocabulary, our recommended vocabulary software program, uses a feature called Word Messenger in order to sporadically "deliver" words to you as you are working on your computer. The word appears at the bottom right-hand corner of your screen, together with its meaning and some other information about it. You can then read the word out loud, study its meaning and close the window. Another word will be delivered to you shortly.