How to Stop Translating in Your Head and Start Thinking in English

TLDRLearn concrete tips and strategies to stop translating in your head and start thinking in English. Practice naming objects in English, think in simple sentences, have conversations with yourself in English, change everyday activities to English, track your progress, and recap your day in English before bed.

Key insights

🎯Start simple by naming objects around you in English to improve pronunciation and increase vocabulary.

💬Think in simple sentences to practice forming sentences and express simple thoughts in English.

🤫Have conversations with yourself in English to build fluency and gain confidence in speaking.

🔄Change everyday activities to English, such as using an English calendar or writing a journal in English, to immerse yourself in the language.

📝Track your progress by writing down your English practice activities and reflecting on your improvements.

Q&A

How can I improve my pronunciation in English?

Focus on pronunciation while naming objects in English and listen to native speakers for guidance.

What should I do if I don't know the meaning of a word in English?

Use an English-only dictionary or a learner's dictionary to look up the word and understand its meaning in English.

How long should I practice speaking to myself in English?

Set aside at least 2 minutes every day for simple conversations with yourself in English, and gradually increase the time as you become more comfortable.

Should I switch all my everyday life things to English?

Choose one or a few everyday activities, like writing a journal or using an English calendar, to switch to English and gradually incorporate more English into your daily life.

How can I keep track of my English practice activities?

Write down what you do in English every day, such as naming objects, watching English news, and having conversations with yourself. This helps you stay motivated and see your progress.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Learn concrete tips and strategies to stop translating in your head and start thinking in English.

01:00Start by naming objects around you in English to improve pronunciation and increase vocabulary.

03:28Think in simple sentences to practice forming sentences and express simple thoughts in English.

05:07Have conversations with yourself in English to build fluency and gain confidence in speaking.

06:21Change everyday activities to English, such as using an English calendar or writing a journal in English, to immerse yourself in the language.

08:35Track your progress by writing down your English practice activities and reflecting on your improvements.