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.

Jist vs Gist

What’s the difference between them?

Jist

Meaning:

Misspelling of the word “gist.”

Examples:

no examples

Gist

Meaning:

The gist of something is the main point or general idea of it.

Examples:

1. The gist of the problem is that we need more resources to complete the project.

2. Can you give me the gist of what you just said?

3. The gist of the story is that it has a happy ending.

Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference

Synonyms

Antonyms

Jist

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

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

Gist

Essence

main idea

core

Details

Tricks for mastery

Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Jist", "Gist".

1. Remember that the word 'jist' is an archaic spelling and currently it isn't used.

2. 'Gist' is a verb, meaning to summarize or convey the main point of a story or idea.

3. To help remember the difference between 'jist' and 'gist,' think of the 'g' in 'gist' as it pronounced in 'genesis' or 'generic.'

Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words

Frequently asked questions

When to use the first word 'Jist'?

The term 'jist' is a common misspelling of the word 'gist.'

When to use the second word 'Gist'?

'Gist' means 'the essential elements or main points' and can often be used in the form of the phrase 'the gist of it is…'. This can be used both in formal and informal contexts, depending on the context.

Do the words have the same pronunciation?

Yes, both 'jist' and 'gist' are usually pronounced the same, with a soft 'j' sound followed by a short 'i' sound and ending with a 'st' sound.

What are common mistakes associated with words 'Jist' and 'Gist'?

The most common mistake associated with 'jist' and 'gist' is confusing the two words, as they have the same pronunciation.

Fill in the gaps to check yourself

1. Im not sure I understand the _____ of the story.

2. Can you give me a _____ of the main points?

3. Im sorry, I still dont get the _____ of the argument.

4. Let me try to explain the _____ in simpler terms.

5. Can you summarize the _____ of the lecture?

6. I think I finally understand the _____ of what youre saying.

1. Gist