One of the biggest challenges for Hindi speakers learning English is the habit of thinking in Hindi and then translating to English. This process slows down communication and often leads to incorrect expressions. Thinking directly in English can dramatically improve your fluency, speed, and confidence. But how do you train your brain to think in a language that’s not your mother tongue?
Guruji Sunil Chaudhary (Suniltams), a leading digital success coach and the founder of Guruji English Classes, has helped countless Hindi speakers transform their English-speaking abilities by teaching them how to think in English. In this blog, Suniltams shares a step-by-step approach to help you shift your thought process from Hindi to English. Follow these practical techniques, and you’ll see a significant improvement in your English fluency.
1. Start Small: Think of Simple Words and Phrases in English
The journey of thinking in English starts with small steps. If you’re used to thinking in Hindi, it can be overwhelming to switch entirely to English overnight. Instead, start with simple words and phrases.
How to Begin
- Identify Simple Objects Around You: Begin by naming the objects around you in English. For example, when you see a किताब (kitaab), think book. When you see दरवाजा (darwaza), think door.
- Use Common Phrases Throughout Your Day: Practice phrases like “What time is it?”, “I am hungry,” or “Where is my phone?” in English.
Tips from Suniltams
“Thinking in English doesn’t mean constructing long, complex sentences in your mind right away. Start with basic words and phrases. As you become more comfortable, gradually expand your vocabulary and sentence complexity,” suggests Guruji Sunil Chaudhary.
2. Narrate Your Day in English
One of the best ways to train your brain to think in English is by narrating your daily activities. Describe what you are doing, even if it’s in your head.
Examples
- Morning: “I am brushing my teeth. After this, I will make breakfast.”
- Afternoon: “I need to finish this report before lunch.”
- Evening: “I will watch a movie after dinner.”
This method forces you to think about your actions in English, which helps train your brain to switch languages more naturally.
Special Notes from Suniltams
“At first, this may feel unnatural, but don’t worry. Keep practicing! The more you describe your daily activities in English, the more you will train your brain to think directly in English,” advises Guruji Sunil Chaudhary.
3. Replace Hindi Thoughts with English Equivalents
Many Hindi speakers have a habit of translating their thoughts from Hindi to English. This can lead to awkward sentences and slow down your speaking. Instead of thinking मुझे भूख लगी है (Mujhe bhook lagi hai) and then translating it to I am hungry, train yourself to think I am hungry directly.
How to Practice
- Identify Common Thoughts: Make a list of phrases you often think in Hindi, such as “मुझे पानी चाहिए” (Mujhe paani chahiye – I need water) or “आज बहुत ठंड है” (Aaj bahut thand hai – It is very cold today).
- Learn the English Equivalents: Memorize the English phrases and try to use them directly in your thoughts.
Guruji Sunil Chaudhary’s Tip
“Train yourself to stop translating. Think of the English equivalent and use it. It might be slow at first, but with consistent practice, your mind will adapt,” says Suniltams.
4. Use Visual Thinking Techniques
Visual thinking involves associating English words with images rather than Hindi words. This technique can help bypass the translation step and make your thinking process faster.
How to Use Visual Thinking
- Associate Words with Images: Instead of thinking of the Hindi word for an object, visualize the object and think of its English name.
- When you see an apple, don’t think सेब (seb); think apple directly.
- Create Mind Maps: Draw mind maps with pictures and English words. This can help reinforce the association between the word and the image.
Tips from Suniltams
“Visual thinking is powerful because it connects the word directly to the concept or object. This eliminates the need for translation and makes your thinking process smoother and faster,” suggests Guruji Sunil Chaudhary.
5. Practice Self-Talk in English
Talking to yourself in English is one of the most effective ways to train your brain to think in English. It’s a method you can use anytime, anywhere.
How to Practice Self-Talk
- Use Mirrors: Stand in front of a mirror and talk to yourself. Describe your feelings, your day, or your plans.
- “I am going to work now. I need to finish my project today.”
- Ask Questions and Answer Them: Engage in a mini-conversation with yourself.
- “What will I do today? I think I will start by checking my emails.”
Special Notes from Suniltams
“Self-talk is a powerful tool that boosts confidence and fluency. It also helps you become comfortable with your voice in English, making it easier to speak to others,” says Guruji Sunil Chaudhary.
6. Change Your Environment to English
Surrounding yourself with English is one of the most effective ways to start thinking in English. The more you immerse yourself in the language, the more natural it becomes.
Practical Ways to Create an English Environment
- Change the Language on Your Devices: Set your phone, computer, and social media accounts to English. This will force you to read and think in English more often.
- Watch English Content: Watch movies, TV shows, and YouTube channels in English. Try to understand the context without relying on subtitles.
- Listen to English Music or Podcasts: Music and podcasts can help you get used to different accents and improve your understanding of spoken English.
Tips from Suniltams
“Immersion is key to thinking in English. Surround yourself with the language as much as possible. The more you listen, read, and see English, the easier it will be to think in English,” suggests Guruji Sunil Chaudhary.
7. Learn to Describe Objects and Situations in English
Another effective method to train your brain to think in English is by describing objects or situations around you. This can be done silently in your mind or out loud if you prefer.
How to Practice
- Describe Everyday Objects: Pick up an item, such as a pen, and describe it in English.
- “This is a blue pen. It has a smooth grip, and I use it to write my notes.”
- Describe Situations: When you’re on the bus or walking down the street, describe what you see and hear.
- “There are children playing in the park. They look very happy.”
Special Notes from Suniltams
“Describing your surroundings helps your brain process information in English. This is a great way to build fluency and confidence,” says Guruji Sunil Chaudhary.
8. Think in English When Making Decisions
We often think in our native language when making decisions because it feels natural. Start practicing making decisions in English. This will help you think quickly and more fluently in English.
Examples
- Small Decisions: “Should I have tea or coffee?” or “Should I wear this dress or that one?”
- Planning Your Day: “First, I will finish my work. Then, I will go for a walk.”
Guruji Sunil Chaudhary’s Tip
“When you train your brain to think in English, you begin to respond faster and more naturally. Use English for small decisions and gradually move to bigger thoughts,” suggests Suniltams.
9. Practice with Friends or Online Partners
The best way to solidify your habit of thinking in English is by practicing it in real conversations. Engage in conversations with friends or join online language exchange platforms to speak with others in English.
How to Find Practice Partners
- Join English Speaking Clubs: Look for local or online English-speaking clubs where you can practice.
- Use Language Exchange Apps: Apps like HelloTalk, Tandem, and Speaky can connect you with English speakers who want to learn Hindi.
Special Notes from Guruji Sunil Chaudhary
“Speaking with others helps you put your English thinking skills to the test. You’ll become more confident and fluent when you practice speaking in real situations,” says Suniltams.
10. Be Patient and Consistent
Switching from thinking in Hindi to English is not something that happens overnight. It takes time, patience, and consistent effort. Celebrate small victories and keep practicing.
Motivational Tips
- Set Small Goals: Start with thinking in English for 5 minutes a day, and gradually increase the time.
- Track Your Progress: Keep a journal to note down your thoughts in English. Over time, you’ll see improvement.
Guruji Sunil Chaudhary’s Encouragement
“Learning to think in English is a journey, not a race. Be patient with yourself and practice every day. The more consistent you are, the faster you will see results,” advises Suniltams.
Conclusion
Learning to think in English is a powerful step toward fluency. It eliminates the need for translation, speeds up your speaking, and makes your communication more natural. For Hindi speakers, this may seem challenging at first, but with the right techniques and consistent practice, it is absolutely achievable.
Guruji Sunil Chaudhary (Suniltams) encourages learners to embrace this change. “Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Thinking in English will improve your fluency and confidence over time. Start small, practice every day, and you’ll be surprised at how quickly you can adapt,” says Suniltams.
For more practical tips, lessons, and expert guidance on learning English, subscribe to Guruji English Classes onYouTube. Happy learning, and keep practicing!