Write a phrase, not only a word
A phrase tells you how a word fits into a useful sentence. Instead of saving only “Kaffee”, write “Einen Kaffee, bitte.” Beside it, write the meaning in your own language and a situation where you might say it.
Keep an example of your own
Change one detail to make the phrase personal. Keep your example short enough to say out loud. If you are unsure about a change, make a note to ask your teacher rather than treating a guess as a rule.
Leave space to return
Leave a blank line beside each entry. Later, cover the translation, try to recall the meaning, then check it. Add a date or a small note when you use the phrase in a new situation.
Make the next session easy
Finish with a tiny next step: three phrases to revisit, one question to ask or one short exchange to rehearse. Your notebook should make practice easier to start, not become a collection you never reopen.
