Here at Red Pen Bristol, we’re avid readers! We understand the importance of reading, and we encourage every one of you to find a bit of time every day to read. We know that if you’re a student in the midst of exam season, it may seem a daunting task, but even a few hundred words every day can do a world of good.

First of all, reading is incredible for your vocabulary. If you’re a non-Native speaker, reading allows you to see essential vocabulary outside a dictionary or English class, being used creatively by a native speaker. We can bet that’ll be more memorable than memorising flashcards!

Of course, this new vocabulary will help your academic work in ways you can’t imagine. Making your English natural and fluid will no longer be a nightmare, and your essays will take half the time!

Reading is also an amazing way to relax. Take some time to make yourself a cup of tea, put on some music, and read a chapter or two of your favourite book, and you’ll feel amazing afterwards.

We’re not saying you should start off reading a 2,000 page Russian epic. Start small; read blog posts, newspaper articles, and magazine pieces about your favourite celebrities. Every little helps and you’ll notice the difference in no time.

Our challenge for you today is spend half an hour reading something you love!