How to Keep a Personal Word Database to Improve at Connections
If you’ve started playing Connections or something similar, you’ve probably noticed how much it helps to know a wide variety of words. Your brain has to search for patterns—words that go together in groups—and that can get tricky fast. Having your own way to collect and study words can make the game more fun and less confusing. Think of it as giving your brain a helpful cheat sheet for “connections unlimited”!Starting a personal word database might sound like a big task, but it can actually be really simple and fun. All you need is something to write in or type into—this could be a notebook, a notes app on your phone, or even a spreadsheet. The best way to learn is to keep it personal and easy to use.
One good idea is to write down any new or interesting words you come across. Maybe it’s a word you saw in a book or heard in a podcast. Add it to your list and, if you’re not sure what it means, look it up and write a short, simple meaning next to it. You might also want to jot down a few related words next to it. For example, if you find the word “painter,” you could also note “canvas,” “artist,” and “brush.”
Organizing your word list by category (like foods, tools, animals, or music) can also be helpful. That way, your brain gets used to grouping words together, which is exactly what you’re doing in the game. You could also make a habit of checking back on your list a few times a week to quiz yourself or add new words. Even five minutes a day can make a big difference over time.
Lastly, don’t stress if you don’t remember everything right away. Part of the fun is building it up slowly. Treat your word database like a quiet little project you return to often, not something you have to finish quickly.
By keeping track of the words you learn and using them in different ways, you give yourself a better chance at spotting patterns and making smart guesses in Connections. Plus, you might find you just enjoy learning new words and seeing how language fits together—kind of like a puzzle, really.