Read every day. Get a library card and use it frequently, because the more you read, the more words you will be exposed to. Try to figure out the meaning of new words in the context of the sentence or passage you are reading. Keep a dictionary available at all times and use it to look up new words after you try to guess the word's meaning. You will be encouraged by the number of times you correctly guess the meaning of a word.
Institute the practice of learning at least one new word every day. Use a dry-erase white board or a notebook and a dictionary. Select a word from the dictionary and write it down. Write the definition of the word underneath the word. Next, write at least one sentence using the new word. Put the dry-erase white board or notebook where you will see it throughout the day. Write your new word on a sticky note and affix it to your computer monitor, the front of the refrigerator or by the coffee pot. Every time you get a snack or fill up your coffee pot you will see the word and read it.
Make a flash card every time you encounter a new word. Write the word on one side of a square of paper and write the definition on the other side. Review your flash card collection every day.
Use the new words you learn in conversations, e-mails or letters. Find opportunities to use the new words.
Play word games alone or with friends, and keep a dictionary handy while playing. Games like Scrabble and crossword puzzles are helpful vocabulary builders.