How can I learn English by reading?

The answer depends on your current skills and how well you learn from books and online content. Reading helps you develop vocabulary, understand the structure, and pick up nuances of punctuation and grammar from seeing how others use it. You can learn simply by engaging in active reading while trying to improve your language skills.Some people can absorb English from textbooks and develop incredible skills from reading alone. However, they’re incredibly rare, and you’ll most likely need some help and advice on your journey to fluency.If you choose to take a Promova English class, reading will also be combined with other activities to help you develop overall comprehension. For example, you’ll interact with a certified tutor who will ask you questions about the text and your opinions, improving your communication skills and expression.

How can I practice English reading comprehension?

There are several ways to improve your comprehension:Ask Questions. Start your reading with a quick skim of the upcoming text to prepare for what you’re about to read. After reading a section, quickly go through it again to see if there’s anything you missed.Skim and re-read. Start your reading with a quick skim of the upcoming text to prepare for what you’re about to read. After you’re done reading a section, quickly go through it again to see if there’s anything you missed.Look for context. Texts don’t exist in isolation and usually have many references, history, or related materials. If you can find out where the author is coming from, you can understand ideas much more quickly.Improve fluency. Spend time sharpening other skills such as listening, speaking, and writing. You can get back to reading later with a new vocabulary and awareness of the language.Lastly, taking English reading and writing classes can help you see the language from various angles and develop better comprehension by engaging with a teacher and getting feedback.

What types of English reading can I learn?

We separate reading into three types based on your purpose - why you might be doing it:Skimming. You’re reading for gist - to get the main ideas from the text. For example, you might be deciding whether a book is worth buying by skimming different chapters to see if it interests you.Scanning. You’re reading to get something in particular from the text and retain specific information. For example, you might be reading a restaurant menu trying to find a dish with shrimps in it, then you’re scanning through the text for the word ‘shrimp’.Intensive reading. You’re reading for detailed comprehension. For example, you’ve received an email from a friend who has just relocated to Canada in which he or she is telling you about their first few weeks in this country. In this case, you might be interested in all the details and even some hidden nuances and inferences, so you will be reading for detail.Extensive reading. You’re reading easy, enjoyable texts without focusing on details or doing any comprehension tasks or examining the text for vocabulary or grammar. This type of reading helps build up fluency by getting used to the language.Learning all the above techniques can help you adjust your reading style and speed depending on your purpose.

Alot vs A lot

What’s the difference between them?

Alot

Meaning:

Misspelling of the phrase “a lot.”

Examples:

no examples

A lot

Meaning:

A lot means a large amount or number of something.

Examples:

1. I have a lot of questions that I need answering.

2. There are a lot of people crammed into the room.

3. I have learned a lot from my mistakes.

Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference

Synonyms

Antonyms

Alot

This word doesn't exist, so there are no synonyms for it.

This word doesn't exist, so there are no antonyms for it.

A lot

Plenty

much

a great deal

A little

Tricks for mastery

Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Alot", "A lot".

1. Remember that 'alot' is not an actual word; it is actually a misspelling of the two-word phrase 'a lot.'

2. Use mnemonic devices to help you remember; for example, you can remember that 'a lot' has two words because it has two o's.

Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words

Frequently asked questions

When to use the first word?

Alot is a nonstandard version of a lot and should not be used in formal writing. It should only be used in informal contexts, such as internet chatrooms, text messages, or casual conversations.

When to use the second word?

A lot is the appropriate spelling of the phrase and should be used in all formal writing, including academic essays, business letters, and resumes. It should also be used in informal contexts when you want to use proper English.

Do the words have the same pronunciation?

Yes, both alot and a lot are pronounced the same, as 'uh-LOT'.

What are common mistakes associated with words 'alot' and 'a lot'?

One of the most common mistakes is using 'alot' when the correct spelling is 'a lot'. It is important to remember that 'alot' is not a real word and is only used in informal contexts. Additionally, some people use the phrase 'a lot of' when they should use 'lots of'. 'A lot of' should only be used when referring to a specific amount, while 'lots of' should be used to refer to a general, unspecified amount.

Fill in the gaps to check yourself

1. _________ of people have tried this recipe and it is very delicious.

2. The store had ________ of items on sale during the holiday season.

3. I have ________ of work to do before the deadline.

4. ________ of people came to the festival this year.

5. ________ of people prefer to take the bus to work.

6. The store had ________ of items on special.

1. Answer: A lot.