Homework series · speakers

How to improve pronunciation

By Will SalisburyUpdated 25 October 2026

You improve pronunciation with short, regular practice that changes how your mouth moves, not with long sessions once a week. A good daily routine takes ten minutes: warm up, one target sound, shadowing a short clip, checking word stress, and recording yourself. Focus first on what makes you hard to understand.

1 · Read the problems2 · One lesson a day3 · Review your mistakes4 · Go round again

1 · Pronunciation

Hear it, see it, say it

IELTS tip. Pronunciation is one of the four criteria in the Speaking test, so it deserves a regular place in your study plan. Record yourself answering Part 1 questions about your hometown, work and study, and listen for the sounds and the stress you have been practising. Clear, steady speech is easier for a listener to follow than fast speech.

ship, sheep, light, right, Where are you from?, I'd like a glass of water, please., Tell me about your hometown.

Quick answers

How long does it take to improve pronunciation?

It depends on the person, but regular short practice is more effective than occasional long practice. Notice small changes from week to week.

Can I improve my pronunciation without a teacher?

Yes. A model to copy, a recorder and a dictionary with audio let you work alone, although a teacher can tell you what to focus on.

Should I try to lose my accent?

No. The aim is to be clear and easy to understand. Your accent can stay, as long as the sounds, stress and rhythm are clear.

What is shadowing?

Speaking along with a recording just after the speaker, copying the rhythm, stress and pitch.

Read the full lesson: How to improve pronunciation