In this previous post, I talked about the point of flashcards for learning foreign languages.
Flashcards are a tool for learning vocabulary, but they are not the most effective tool.
If you want to use flashcards for building your vocabulary and phrase knowledge, consider these tips for effective flashcard usage.
What is your goal with flashcards?
The first thing to consider is, what is your goal with these flashcards?
Is your goal to improve your pronunciation of words?
Is your goal to prepare for a test?
Do you have a trip coming up and you want to sound less like a tourist when asking for directions or ordering at a restaurant?
These goals can be supported with flashcards while other goals like having a conversation in your target language or improving your fluency aren’t.
Know your learning style
Your learning style will influence how you use flashcards.
Tactile learners will love making the cards and learn best that way.
Visual learners will benefit from flashcards, digital or paper. Some just like lists.
Auditory learners might do best having somebody read the cards or a list. They can benefit from an app that can read the words to them too.
I’ve talked more about learning styles in language learning here.
Choose the words that you need support with (not the ones you know)
One of the most common strategies I have seen students use when it comes to flashcards and foreign language is to write every single vocabulary word down on a card.
This takes up a lot of time, energy and resources, and can be a waste of them.
Instead of reinforcing words you already know, only write vocabulary words for those you struggle with.
First, quickly review all the vocabulary you need to know.
Then make flashcards for the words you have struggled with either pronouncing or translating. Your brain will not forget the other words but this helps you focus on improving all your words.
Are Words or Phrases Better on Flashcards?
When creating your flashcards, consider not just the words you’re struggling with but the phrases as well.
Flashcard sets can even be mixed words and phrases.
In fact, creating flashcards for phrases can provide the context to help a single vocabulary word stick better. Learning words in context provides meaning and value to the word.
Pick translation or pronunciation
If you have too much information on a flashcard, it’s no longer serving the purpose of a quick or flash card.
So, pick either translating the word (or phrase), or practicing the pronunciation of the word (or phrase).
Which one you choose depends on what you’re struggling with in the language in general.
Consider digital flashcards for visual or auditory learners
Flashcards don’t always have to be little 3 x 5 cards.
There’s a number of apps or ways to make digital flashcards so you can study on your phone, on your computer, or share with friends.
Tactile learners do not really benefit from digital flashcards, because the creation process is not the same.
On the other hand, auditory or visual learners can benefit from digital flashcards.
Pictures can help vocabulary too!
Picture cues on flashcards aren’t just for the little kids. A picture on a flashcard can help provide that context that’s usually missing.
Just remember to make it a simple picture with maybe 2 items in the image.
Drawing pictures for flashcards can be extra helpful for those tactile learners too!
Flashcards are a tool and these tips can help make that tool work for you.
Comment below which tip you’re going to try next!
