Uploaded January 2015 | Updated September 2026, 12 minutes ago

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englishpronunciationcourse.com
globalspeechacademy.com

My most frequently asked question, by far, is, "How can I improve my accent in English?"

In this video I walk you through my answer, starting with asking YOU, "What is your goal in changing your accent?"

If you live in the US or UK and want to fit in, then I have a different answer for you. But if you are a global citizen, communicating with people from all over the world - native and non-native speakers alike - then this video is for you.

I cover the three things you must do to be better understood by everyone, everywhere, every time:

1. Clear consonant sounds
All your consonant sounds must be unique. You can't mix up sounds like R and L or V and W. Every consonant sound must be articulated clearly. Additionally, "plosives" (p, k and t) at the beginnings of words should have a nice little burst of breath after them before you continue on to the next sound. Watch the video for an example.

2. Use consistent vowels of the correct length
The particular sound of your vowels isn't actually so important, as long as you are consistent. More important than the actual sound is how long you hold the sound. Vowels coming before voiced consonant endings should be held longer than vowels coming before unvoiced endings. Again, make sure to watch the full video for an example.

3. Chunking your messages and feeling the language
Everything really comes together with your English speech when you start to feel the rhythm and flow of the language. "Chunking" refers to where you choose to pause when you speak. How do you break up your messages? If you are pausing after every word, completely focused on every sound of every letter, no one will be able to understand your message, even though you pronounce the sounds clearly. You need to understand how to speak so others understand your full message, and that has to do with your pacing and timing as you speak.

I hope this video gives you a global perspective when you ask the question, "How can I improve my accent?"

Focus on your clarity and confidence and you can't go wrong.

Happy speaking!
Heather
globalspeechacademy.com
englishpronunciationcourse.com