How to Use a Dictionary

Book excerpt: If a young person is to become a skilled and responsible self-learner, who finds joy and success in education, there is no way around the frequent use of dictionaries. Studies clearly show that understanding the meaning of words is the key to success as a student. But when you first open a dictionary and look at the various symbols, grammatical terminology, and small print, you may be discouraged. But one does not need a degree in linguistic to enjoy the liberal use of dictionaries with crystal clear understanding. In fact How to Use a Dictionary makes it simple enough for anyone from age eight on up to find his way through the basics of grammar and the small print of wordbooks. And while this book can be understood by young people, it is of no less value to the advanced learner because honestly, do you understand every bit of what you see printed in a lexicon?