How to Cope When You've Forgotten Almost All Your English for the Postgraduate Entrance Exam
Preparing for the postgraduate entrance exam can be a daunting task, especially when you realize that your English skills have taken a backseat during your studies. Many students face the challenge of forgetting key vocabulary, grammar rules, and even basic sentence structures. This article aims to provide practical solutions and strategies to help you regain your English confidence and performance, even with limited time left before the exam. Whether you're struggling with reading comprehension, writing, or speaking, we've got you covered with actionable tips that can make a real difference.
Common Questions and Answers
1. What Should I Do If I've Forgotten Most of My English Vocabulary?
If you've forgotten most of your English vocabulary, it can feel overwhelming, but there are effective ways to rebuild your word bank quickly. Start by focusing on high-frequency words that appear frequently in exam papers. Make flashcards with the word on one side and its definition and example sentences on the other. Use apps like Anki or Quizlet to create digital flashcards that you can review regularly. Additionally, read short articles or news headlines in English every day to expose yourself to new words in context. This method helps you understand how words are used naturally, making memorization easier. Another strategy is to categorize words by themes, such as "travel," "education," or "environment," so you can group them and review them together. Practice using these words in sentences to reinforce your memory. Remember, consistency is key—dedicate at least 30 minutes each day to vocabulary building, and you'll see progress over time.
2. How Can I Improve My Grammar Skills When I Feel rusty?
Improving your grammar skills when you feel rusty requires a structured approach. Begin by reviewing the fundamental rules of English grammar, such as subject-verb agreement, tense usage, and sentence structure. Use grammar workbooks or online resources like Purdue OWL to refresh your knowledge. Practice is essential, so try to write short paragraphs or journal entries in English daily. Focus on one grammatical concept per day, such as the past perfect tense or the use of articles, and apply it in your writing. Grammar exercises can also be helpful; websites like Grammarly or EnglishGrammar.org offer interactive quizzes that test your understanding and provide explanations for correct answers. Another effective method is to listen to English podcasts or watch movies with subtitles. Pay attention to how native speakers construct sentences and use grammar naturally. If possible, find a language exchange partner or tutor who can provide feedback on your writing and speaking. Regular practice and exposure to correct grammar usage will gradually rebuild your skills.
3. What Are Some Quick Tips for Passing the English Section of the Exam?
Passing the English section of the postgraduate entrance exam with limited preparation time requires smart strategies. First, familiarize yourself with the exam format by reviewing past papers. Understand the types of questions asked, such as reading comprehension, cloze tests, and writing tasks. For reading comprehension, practice skimming and scanning techniques to quickly locate answers. Underline key information in the passages and make notes if allowed. For cloze tests, focus on context clues and eliminate obviously incorrect options. In writing, structure your essays with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Use simple, clear sentences to convey your ideas effectively. Time management is crucial—practice completing sections within the allocated time to avoid rushing. Additionally, review common idioms and phrasal verbs that often appear in the exam. Memorize a few high-impact phrases that you can use in your writing to enhance your score. Lastly, stay calm and confident during the exam. Trust in the preparation you've done and approach each question methodically.