It is true that you should use difference learning strategies for difference stage of English learning. For vocabulary improving, flash cards are recommended by most of teachers. Two years ago, I did use flash cards for a short term. Over time I found using flash cards is not an effective way again. One of the facts is that I can remember some words for a short term but I cannot use those words effectively. When I come back to write something, still I use those very common words. It means that I don't internalize those words in my mind.
When I was a beginner two year ago. using flash cards was very helpful for me. It was very helpful to remember those basic meanings of words. One the biggest results was that I can read more and more.
When I google my question, I do find some suggestions about avoid using flash cards for a intermediate English learner.
I want to know:
1. If you are intermediate or advanced English learner, how do you do for improving vocabulary?
2. If you are a native speakers, how about you? I know there is a fact that only 5% new words on average are improved for native speakers after they graduated.
One thing that I noticed about using flashcards is that when I study them everyday, I am more likely to recognize and understand when someone else uses the words I add to my deck. But it is really hard to recall those words and use them in my speech.
What helps me to use newly learned vocab in my speech right away is to practice making sentences with them. Also, I try to use new vocab words right away. If I am talking to someone in Vietnamese, and I learn a new word during that conversation, I try to figure out a way to use that same word right away.