How to practise everyday English speaking at home

You don't need a partner to practise speaking at home. Choosing a real-life situation, using a few set phrases in it out loud, and recording and listening to yourself is strong practice when done regularly.

A 20-minute plan

First 5 minutes: read yesterday's sentences out loud. Next 10 minutes: choose one situation (café, supermarket, a doctor's appointment) and say its sentences, playing both sides. Last 5 minutes: write and say two sentences about what you did today and what you will do tomorrow.

Five useful patterns

“Could I have…?”, “How much is…?”, “I'd like to…”, “What time does … open?”, “Sorry, could you repeat that?” Rather than memorising them, use each in three different situations. When pattern meets situation, speech follows.

A small habit for pronunciation

Say a word you find hard three times slowly, then three times at normal speed, then use it in a sentence. The goal is not a perfect accent but being easily understood.

To keep going, see Always, usually, never: adverbs of frequency in English and Everyday English phrasal verbs.

Frequently asked questions

Can I really improve by speaking on my own? Yes; speaking aloud trains you to use phrases and recall words. Practising with a real partner when you can completes it.

What should I listen for when I record myself? Focus on one thing each time: one word's pronunciation, one phrase, or fluency. Listening and fixing just that point is enough.