7 Smart Ways to Think in English

Summary

Keith from the Keith Speaking Academy shares seven strategies to help English learners think in English, thereby improving fluency. He suggests creating 'English moments' through daily exposure, using known vocabulary to reduce translation, starting with single words and building up to phrases, talking and writing in English, and practicing with others. Keith also recommends using monolingual dictionaries to foster thinking in the target language, emphasizing the importance of consistent practice for long-term benefits.

Takeaways

• 😀 The key to fluent English is thinking in English rather than translating from your native language.
• 🏫 Traditional grammar-translation method in language learning can hinder the development of fluency.
• 🌍 Surrounding yourself with English, even if not in an English-speaking country, can help improve fluency.
• 🎧 Engaging with English through various forms of media like podcasts, radio, songs, and books can create an immersive environment.
• 🗣️ Repeating words and phrases you hear or see helps activate your vocabulary and improves fluency.
• 💡 Focusing on using only the words you already know when speaking English simplifies communication and enhances fluency.
• 🔍 Paraphrasing or letting go of an idea if you lack the vocabulary is better for fluency than reaching for a dictionary during conversation.
• 📈 Starting with thinking in single English words and gradually building up to phrases and collocations is a practical approach.
• 🤔 Talking to yourself in English, even if silently, reinforces your inner voice and helps in thinking in English.
• ✍️ Writing in English, such as keeping a diary or leaving notes, complements speaking and aids in developing an English mindset.
• 🗣️ Practicing with others in English is essential for applying the skill of thinking in English during real conversations.
• 📚 Using a monolingual dictionary can be a game-changer by forcing you to think in the language you're learning.

Q & A

What is the main challenge discussed in the video script for English learners?

The main challenge discussed is the habit of translating from one's native language to English, which is often taught through the grammar translation method and can hinder the development of fluency.

What is the first step recommended by Keith to start thinking in English?

The first step recommended is to surround yourself with English by dedicating time each day to English-related activities, such as listening to podcasts, radio, songs, reading, or watching TV series and films in English.

What are the three activities Keith suggests doing during English moments?

The three activities suggested are: 1) Listening passively to reduce stress and learn more deeply, 2) Repeating words heard or seen to activate vocabulary, and 3) Repeating phrases to enhance fluency.

Why is it advised to only use words you already know when speaking English?

Using only known words helps to focus on fluency rather than translation, which allows the speaker to start thinking in English more naturally.

What is the significance of starting small and building up when thinking in English?

Starting small, such as thinking in single words, and gradually building up to phrases and sentences allows for a manageable and effective way to practice thinking in English without being overwhelmed.

How does talking to oneself in English, as suggested in the script, contribute to language fluency?

Talking to oneself out loud reinforces the inner voice with English, which is believed to come from the internalization of one's outer voice, thus aiding in thinking and speaking in English more fluently.

What role does writing in English play in developing the habit of thinking in English, according to the script?

Writing in English complements speaking by creating English moments throughout the day, which can help in starting to think in English, even though writing and speaking are different forms of communication.

Why is practicing with others important for thinking in English, as mentioned in the script?

Practicing with others is crucial because it simulates real-life communication, providing opportunities to apply and reinforce the habit of thinking in English in a social context.

What is the significance of using a monolingual dictionary in the process of thinking in English?

Using a monolingual dictionary forces the learner to define and understand words in English, not translating to their native language, which is a significant step in training the brain to think directly in English.

What is the main takeaway from the expression 'the proof is in the pudding' as it relates to learning English?

The expression 'the proof is in the pudding' emphasizes that the true test of effectiveness in learning English is through practice and application, not just theoretical knowledge.

How does Keith encourage viewers to engage with his content and what resources does he offer?

Keith encourages viewers to engage by subscribing to his YouTube channel, turning on notifications, and checking out his Fluency course on Udemy for further improvement in English fluency.