Adding words and phrases to your long-term memory is a key part of learning a language. Thankfully, there are proven methods to successfully remember words and phrases so you can start using them in real life.
Spaced repetition
Spaced repetition is a proven learning technique designed to efficiently move vocabulary from short-term to long-term memory, where words are presented at intervals to continually refresh your memory.
When you first learn a word, you'll see it more often and at shorter intervals. Over time, as you consistently get the word right, you'll see the word less frequently. Instead of seeing the word every day, you might see a word you know well only once a month. As you continue to practise, you'll add more and more words to your long-term memory.
Babbel’s review feature
The Babbel Review feature uses spaced repetition to help you effectively and efficiently memorise vocabulary. Every time you complete a lesson, new vocabulary will be added to your Review manager. Here’s how the review manager works:
- Each time you get a word right, our system will recognise it and ask you to review it less and less often.
- If you make a mistake, our system will ask you to review it again the next day.
- If you make a mistake a few times, our system will show you the word more often, giving you more opportunities to practise and get it right.
The review system is just one part of Babbel's effective learning method - in addition to adding vocabulary to your long-term memory, Babbel helps you start speaking with confidence.
Supplement your learning
Along with using Review, there are many ways to supplement your learning. Labelling items in your home and keeping a vocabulary diary are just a couple of ways you can learn and memorise new words. You can also engage in conversations with native speakers or language exchange partners to reinforce vocabulary in context, or try our Conversation Practice, which will help you to become more confident with vocabulary in a new language.
You can also check out our suggestions on how to supplement your learning.