Improving academic vocabulary is the basis for success in the reading, writing, listening and speaking sections of the test for many students preparing for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Designed to test English language skills, this exam is especially important for students who want to study at university level. Therefore, expanding your academic vocabulary can help you get a higher score on the TOEFL test. Here are some ways you can improve your vocabulary.

You can improve your vocabulary by reading

Reading a variety of academic texts and articles is one of the most effective ways to improve your academic vocabulary. In this way, you will be in contact with unfamiliar words and have the opportunity to learn their meanings.

You can read university textbooks, academic journals, research articles and various scientific publications. However, it will also help to increase your enthusiasm for reading if you read about your favourite and most relevant areas of interest.

These types of texts contain language structures and vocabulary that you may encounter in the TOEFL exam. By writing down each new word you read in a notebook and learning its meaning, you can systematically build your vocabulary.

You can use vocabulary cards

Vocabulary cards are an effective way to review and memorise new words. Each card has a new word on one side and its meaning, use in a sentence and synonyms on the other.

Regular practice with vocabulary cards will help you remember academic vocabulary quickly during exams. You can make your own vocabulary cards or access ready-made sets of vocabulary cards from various online platforms. You can also create your own dictionary of vocabulary cards. You can use your vocabulary cards by grouping words according to their synonyms or antonyms.

Watch videos and podcasts

Today, podcasts and videos with academic content are another way you can use technology to improve your vocabulary. This type of material will help you learn new vocabulary and use it in the right context, while also improving your listening skills.

Podcasts and video tutorials on academic topics can help you familiarize yourself with the conversational styles and vocabulary you may encounter in the exam. Regularly listening to this content will not only improve your listening skills, but also enrich your academic vocabulary.