Building a strong vocabulary improves reading comprehension, writing quality, and communication skills. There are several strategies for learning new words.

Word parts (prefixes, roots, and suffixes) help you decode unfamiliar words. The prefix "un-" means "not" (unhappy = not happy). The root "duct" means "to lead" (conduct, produce). The suffix "-tion" turns a verb into a noun (celebrate → celebration).

Context clues help you figure out word meanings while reading. Look for definitions, examples, comparisons, or contrasts near the unknown word.

To improve spelling, practice writing words, break them into syllables, and look for patterns. Many spelling rules have patterns: "i before e except after c," double the final consonant before adding -ing to short vowel words (run → running).