Do you know your learning style? It may be the key to your success in learning a language if you use it! There are 7 types of learning styles. Many people find a combination of two works best for them.

Visual

Visual learners like to see what they are learning. They learn best by using pictures, graphics, and presentations to help them.

Tip to try: Each time you learn a new word, draw a quick sketch next to it to help you remember.

Verbal

Verbal learners prefer to use words to communicate their learning needs. Speaking (and writing) are the best ways for them to learn.

Tip to try: Get online and find a language exchange partner to practice your speaking skills.

Logical

Those who are logical learners like systematic learning. This means they learn best when the material is presented in a way that is very clear and has good reasoning.

Tip to try: When it comes to grammar, draw a timeline of how the tense works (combined with visual learning).

Physical

Time to get physical! If you are a physical learner, you need lots of touch and movement. (See also 5 Fun ESL Games For Engaging Kinesthetic Learners)

Tip to try: Say, or think, everything you are doing in English while you are doing it. Ex. “I’m walking”, “I put the cup on the table”, etc. (combined with verbal learning).

Auditory

Auditory learning is a fancy way of saying learning by listening. Maybe even add some music to your learning!

Tip to try: Pick out some popular tunes and learn the words!

Social

Social learners like to be with other people when learning. They like to interact and work in small and big groups.

Tip to try: Join a class, start an English speaking club, or make a pact with a friend to only speak in English.

Solitary

The opposite of social learning is solitary. If you are more of a solitary learner, it’s easier for you to learn by yourself, or working alone.

Tip to try: Make a personal language learning schedule!

Want more like this? Visit our Language Learning Tips blog.

About the Author

Yvette Smith is an English teacher currently in Vietnam. She has taught in China and Mexico as well. She enjoys writing about the ESL field and thinks everyone should take the chance to travel abroad at least once in their lives.

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