Reading a book to yourself is good, but it’s easy to gloss over proper pronunciation. Here’s how you can improve your accent when you read a book aloud.

Learning English as a second language can be tough.

On top of that, perfectly pronouncing words can be a skill that seems almost impossible to develop.

Maybe you’ve been studying English for years; or, maybe you’re just beginning.

No matter your mastery level, you may still be struggling with your accent. It may get in the way of your conversations, work, relationships, and more.

Did you know that when you read a book, you’re opening the door to perfecting your pronunciation?

Here’s how:

1. It Helps You Understand Better

Oftentimes, reading a book in your head makes it easy to skim over certain parts or let your mind wander.

When you read a book out loud, you are more likely to pay close attention to what you’re saying.

Reading aloud also forces you to slow down; your mouth can only keep up so fast with your mind!

Slowing down is key to reading comprehension — especially in a different language.

This intense focus will help you not only understand better but also to focus more on what you’re saying and how you say it. You may be more likely to catch mistakes in pronunciation and be able to correct them!

2. It Assists in Fluency

Taking the time to pronounce each word perfectly while reading out loud can seem like a daunting task; however, the more you do it, the easier it’ll get.

Start slowly, especially if you’re still a beginner. Over time, you’ll start to recognize words and phrases — and they’ll start to come naturally to you.

Fluency helps you connect on a deeper level with a language. When you’re fluent, you can listen to and understand basically anything in the language. This instant understanding can make it easier for you to remember exact pronunciation — and thus better your accent.

3. It Helps You Learn New Words

Have you ever been reading something and suddenly come across a word you didn’t recognize?

Of course — everyone has!

Reading a book out loud can encourage you to phonetically sound out unfamiliar words. 

Focusing on each phonetic sound not only helps you pronounce new words but it helps you practice the proper pronunciation of each one.

The more you practice these sounds, the better your accent will be.

Furthermore, learning new words can expand your vocabulary. This expansion of speech will assist in a previous point — fluency!

When You Read a Book Out Loud, You Can Improve Your Accent

Overall, those wishing to have proper pronunciation should regularly read a book out loud.

When you read a book aloud, you’re opening the door to many opportunities to perfect your language skills. 

By expanding comprehension, assisting in fluency and increasing vocabulary, reading books out loud should be a daily task for those who feel like they may still be struggling with speaking English. 

Are you looking for more ways to develop your English speaking skills? 

If so, we’re always writing about it. 

For more tips on mastering English as your second language, check out our blog.