How to improve your English for JAMB

Use of English is compulsory for every candidate, so it affects everyone's score. Improve it with a little practice every day rather than cramming at the end.

Know what the paper tests

The official syllabus covers areas such as comprehension and summary, vocabulary (lexis) and grammar (structure), and oral English (sounds and stress). JAMB may also set questions on a recommended text. Use the syllabus to make sure you prepare for every part.

1. Read every day

Read newspapers, good novels or articles for 15–20 minutes daily. Reading is the slowest but most powerful way to improve vocabulary, grammar and comprehension all at once.

2. Build your vocabulary properly

• Keep a vocabulary notebook. Write each new word, its meaning, and a sentence using it.
• Learn synonyms and antonyms together — JAMB often asks for words nearest or opposite in meaning.
• Learn common idioms and phrasal verbs ("put up with", "call off").
• Test yourself on your notebook regularly, using the methods in how to remember what you read.

3. Comprehension: read the questions first

Look at the questions before reading the passage, so you know what to look for. Answers must come from the passage, not from what you think. Watch for words like "not", "except" and "according to the writer".

4. Grammar: learn the rules behind your mistakes

When you get a grammar question wrong, find the rule: subject-verb agreement, tenses, prepositions, question tags. Write the rule and two examples in your notebook.

5. Oral English: practise the sounds

Many candidates skip this part, so it's an easy place to gain marks. Learn the vowel and consonant sounds and where stress falls in common words, and practise with past questions. Say the words out loud.

6. The recommended text

If JAMB sets a recommended text for your exam year, read the whole book — not just a summary. Note the characters, main events, setting and themes. Check JAMB's syllabus and official announcements for the current title.

Daily 30-minute English routine

• 15 minutes of reading.
• 5 new words in your notebook, with sentences.
• 10 practice questions on one area (vocabulary, grammar, sounds or comprehension).