Make sure you learn the exceptions to each spelling rule. An oft-quoted rule is “I before E except after C”. You’ll need to learn the exceptions to avoid tripping up. There’s no easy way to learn these exceptions.
Examples: height, weird
It can sometimes be helpful to break the word into syllables to help you remember the spelling. Many people get confused with the word “several” because it looks and sounds similar to “separate”. You could remember “several” by breaking it down into “sev-ER-al”. “Desperate” is another tricky one because it sounds as though it should be spelt in the same way as “separate”.
Internet forums and social networking sites are a hotbed of poor spelling and grammar. People make less effort with spelling and grammar when they’re on the internet. You may end up learning incorrect spellings without even realising it. Try to limit your exposure to English to high-quality written sources.
This is a fun one. If you’re trying to learn a particular word, look at the correct spelling first, then try writing it down with your eyes closed! It’s fun to see what your writing comes out like, but it also helps your brain to remember the action of writing the word.
My final tip is my favourite one. Take care when you’re practising the spelling of a word. Use a nice pen. Write it slowly. Create a doodle around the word. Paint it. Draw in bubble letters… Anything like this will help your brain to remember the process of spelling a word. Plus, it’s a nice relaxing way to practise!
How do you practise your spellings? Have you tried any of these techniques?
Tell us in the comments below!
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