Have you ever heard the saying that writing something down once is the equivalent of reading it seven times. This means that somehow the information gets quickly hardwired into our brain. Many successful people are fully aware of this and have used and are still using this means as a way to guide their lives to achieve a the positive outcomes and desires that they want. Therefore it is obvious that when learning a new language; writing down new vocabulary is essential to progress.

Apart from that, writing notes increases your memory capacity, assists you in remembering new concepts and encourages your natural ability to understand new information according to a recent study in an issue of the journal Psychological Science. Technology has its place but when it comes to the matter of note taking, then we need to go back to basics. Here are five reasons why:

1. Writing something down shows its importance.

If we write some information down, it is immediately recognised as a priority. This means that it needs to be actioned soon. Especially if we put it somewhere that is visible – such as shopping lists on the fridge. Obviously a private journal or note book is usually better off in the bedroom, but it must be looked at periodically if hoping to achieve the goals written down. This should be to compare progress of perhaps this month compared to that of last month.

2. Writing information down assists in keeping the mind clear.

This is a great way in order to alleviate the stress of worry about what needs to be done as you feel in control. One can use the mind to focus on other priorities that may need more immediate attention and can rest assured knowing that your list is in progress or can be checked at an appropriate time.

3. Writing information down helps to motivate you.

There is a sense of achievement and accomplishment when goals are met or even when a simple todo list has been completed. This indicates a forward motion in life and most importantly keeps you on track. When learning a new language, you can test your knowledge of old vocabulary and phrases by reviewing what you have previously written. This will give you an idea of what you have learned and encourage you to keep going.

4. Writing information down opens up a higher level of thinking.

The fact that the mind is more at ease and not worried consciously or subconsciously frees up the process of staying in the moment and being able to think about other hopefully more positive subjects in more detail. Generally the mind is stimulated to become more relaxed. A relaxed mind is very important when learning a language as stress creates confusion and causes you to get mixed up and use uncorrected words or phrases.

5. Writing information down creates a sense of gratitude.

When it is possible to look back and see your achievements written down and ticked off, this gives a deep feeling of gratitude as you can reflect on your journey to success and appreciate what you went through to accomplish certain things and how this has benefited you and perhaps others too. If your life feels on track and in order, then you will also be able to assist those around you with simple techniques.

These are 5 good reasons to ensure that you have a note book at hand when learning French or any other language, as you will achieve and attain more this way.