There are many ways to learn new vocabulary: you can sign up for a class at your local university or community college and join a large group of other students for group instruction; you can enroll in an on-line course with options to have virtual class time or self-paced study; you can buy a vocabulary training software package that helps you create and then guides you through your own study program; or you can head off to the library and get an instruction book to go through on your own. For many people, the best solution is to try out each of these methods to see what works best. In the end, you might even find that you like to mix up your study routine. For example, by using vocabulary software along with group classes, you’ll get the targeted practice you need from an individualized study program as well as the group conversation practice that helps you become comfortable with using your newly-learned words.

Another helpful option, and one that can be used with any or all of these study methods, is to spend some time (and possibly money) on a good tutorial session. A tutorial is a private or small group instruction given by someone who is very knowledgeable in that particular field. The word comes from the Latin word tutorem, which means “watcher, guardian.” Back in the 17th century, it was the custom in England to assign an older student to help a younger one get through his classes – in other words, to “watch over” the boy to make sure he didn’t fall behind. These days, parents often hire a tutor to give their child extra help on one or more school subjects, especially if they’re having difficulty understanding the lessons. People who want to learn a second language frequently look for native speakers who can tutor them (note that the verb form is the same as the noun form) in that language as well as give them opportunities to practice speaking the language. If you’ve signed up for classroom instruction, there may be a teacher’s assistant or graduate student available for free tutoring sessions before or after classes.

Whether you like to learn on your own, or find it helpful to work with others, keep in mind that everyone needs a little extra assistance now and then. The time and money you spend in focused vocabulary study will pay off in the end.