You keep misspelling the same words, or you have a test coming up and a long list of vocabulary you never seem to retain. Flash cards help for a day, then the words slip away. LearnThatWord is an online vocabulary and spelling trainer that tracks which words you already know and spends your practice time on the ones you don't.
Quick facts
- Type: online vocabulary and spelling tutoring, used in any web browser
- Vendor: LearnThat Foundation (formerly eSpindle Learning), a nonprofit
- Word base: about 150,000 words
- Cost: basic tutoring is free. Premium options include a monthly plan at $9.50, annual plans at $99.80 (one time) or $79.80 (self-renewing), a 3-year plan at $175, and a 10-year plan at $299. Pay-Per-Result credits are the alternative.
Key features
Sessions built around the words you struggle with
The program tracks what you know and adapts each session to you. You don't waste time on words you've already mastered.
Word entries with audio, images and 37 languages
Each word comes with audio, images, translations in 37 languages, definitions, usage samples and tutoring comments. That helps if English is your second language.
Ready-made study modules for specific goals
Modules cover commonly misspelled words (over 2,000), academic vocabulary and GRE prep, and TOEFL, IELTS and PTE vocabulary (over 7,000 words). You can also upload your own word list or pick one from the word list archive.
Pay-Per-Result: pay only when a hard word sticks
Instead of a subscription, you can buy credits (tokens). There is no charge for words you already know or for taking quizzes. A token is used only when a challenging word completes your practice cycle and you've learned it. Tokens can be shared and never expire.
Classroom tools for teachers
Teachers can create free accounts, form classes, review performance and send words to students. Rewards, diplomas and progress tracking keep learners going.
Who it's for
Students preparing for the SAT, GRE or TOEFL, English language learners, spelling bee contestants, and teachers who want to assign word lists. The vendor says members range from 2nd grade to retirement age.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Basic tutoring is free, so you can try it before paying.
- You can pay per learned word instead of subscribing.
- Tokens don't expire and can be shared with family or friends.
- It's run by a nonprofit, and revenue funds its literacy campaigns.
Cons
- It works online only, so you need an internet connection.
- Rewards and some other premium features require an upgrade.
- Several plan types and credit bundles can take a few minutes to compare.
FAQs
Is LearnThatWord free?
Basic tutoring is free. Premium features come through a membership or Pay-Per-Result credits.
How do credits work?
A credit is used only when a word that was hard for you is practiced and then entered correctly in subsequent quizzes. Words you already know cost nothing.
Can I use my own words?
Yes. You can upload your own list or choose one from the word list archive.
Can teachers use it in class?
Yes. Teachers can create free accounts, form classes, review student performance and send words to students.
System requirements
Internet access and a web browser. Nothing needs to be installed.