Word Nerds: SparkNotes Patented Vocab Study Method

So, you're taking the SAT again, trying to pump up your score just a few points? Even though the CollegeBoard nixed the analogies section four years ago, a comprehensive and diverse vocabulary is still worthwhile. The Critical Reading sections become oh-so-much easier when you understand all the words in the selected passages. And a single, correctly-used fancy word (watch out for malapropisms!) can boost your essay from solid to stellar.

But how to remember all those definitions? Flashcards are always helpful, especially if you start studying them a few months in advance. But there are other, unconventional methods for burning words into your brain. We here at SparkNotes are what you could call "Word Nerds" and we've come up with a patented step-by-step plan to expand your vocab. Here's the drill:

1. Make a list of the words you have a hard time remembering.
These should be the words that you know you've seen, like, a gazillion times but for some frickin' reason their definitions won't stick. Here's a sample list:

Ebullient

Intrepid

Timorous

Garrulous

Tacit

2. Pick your fave celebrity of the moment.
Since we can't really know which celebrity you're into, we'll make one up. How about Jac Zefron.

3. Now, imagine you run into this celeb on the street and want to impress him. You have to use all five words in your conversation.
You: Wow, I can't believe this is happening. I'm sort of freaking out here! In fact, I'm ebullient!
Jac: That's flattering...I think.
You: Oh, it is. It means I'm enthusiastic. Alright, I'm going to be intrepid, I mean, fearless and go out on a limb. Wanna go grab some coffee or something?
Jac: Hmmm. I suppose, although, I was about to meet up with Marissa Mudgeons, you know, my girlfriend.
You: Oh my god, really? Invite her along!
Jac: Well, she's a little bit...she's sort of...
You: Timorous? I totally understand. I used to be timid around new people too. I wouldn't be able to say anything and I'd sort of hide out and not want to make eye contact and then I'd go home and be sooo annoyed with myself cause I couldn't speak up and...well, now I'm over it. In fact, I'm pretty garrulous.
Jac: Huh?
You: I ramble and talk a lot.
Jac: Yeah, I sort of noticed.
You: Oh my god, I'm so embarrassed.
Jac: No worries, I'm used to people acting strangely around me.
You: Are you tacitly saying--that is, trying to imply--that I'm just like any other fan?
Jac: Well, um, I think I gotta run. Nice meeting you!

4. Repeat scene over and over again in your mind
By attaching the words to a specific setting, you'll be able to give their definitions context and you should have no trouble remembering their meanings on SAT morning. And you'll know exactly how to freak out your favorite celeb.

Got some other unusual ways of studying vocab? Please, don't be avaricious--share with us in the comments!