Cafetalk Tutor's Column

Why are you studying English?

We often feel anxiety when we are learning something new. When you are a beginner at a new language...

Daily English Upgrade #029: Business Skill — Summarize + confirm action items

This makes you sound professional (and prevents mistakes). Useful phrases: Just to summarize, … So ...

Daily English Upgrade #030: Say It Better — “Thank you” (natural, strong versions)

“Thank you” is great. These upgrades sound warmer and more natural. Simple upgrades: Thanks, I appr...

The Real Reason You’re Afraid to Speak English

Many English learners believe they are afraid to speak because their grammar is not perfect. But in...

The Pharaonic system….....to flee its captivity

The video discusses the concept of a "Pharaonic system" of governance, defining it as any autocrati...

Preparing for an Online Lesson (especially if you're nervous!)

I've had a number of people tell me they get nervous before their first session with a new teacher,...

Happy Birthday to me!

It's my birthday!   No, not my actual birthday...unfortunately that falls in late December ;-)   It...

Do you have questions? Tutors are here to help!

We can sometimes feel shy when working with a tutor.  However, our tutors are here to help!  They l...

Feeling inadequate is not a verdict. It is a phase.

The problem is not the feeling — it’s the conclusion we attach to it. Inadequacy often whispers: “Y...

Questions You Should Never Be Afraid to Ask Your Tutor

After nearly 13 years teaching Business English, I’ve noticed something interesting. The students w...

Tarot: A.I. versus Human

Can AI read tarot accurately? Yes. Somewhat. Is it better than a human? It depends on how deeply y...

Spring flowers

Walking in my local park recently has been a real pleasure because the spring bulbs are really bloo...

How We Deal With Snowstorms

In the past year, I moved from the Seattle area of Washington state in the USA to (virtually) the m...

Speak Better English: Admit You Have No Idea!

Speak Better English: Admit You Have No Idea! Communication / Confidence / Asking Questions "Ye...

Japanese Izakaya Phrases for Beginners: “Toriaezu Nama de” and “Kanpai!”

What does “Toriaezu nama de” mean?   This phrase means:   “For now, draft beer, please.”   Toriaezu...

Take all language-learning advice with a PINCH OF SALT.

There's so much advice out there when it comes to learning languages: use this app, follow this tec...

Study. Know Your Craft. Be Intentional.

Study Study is not just reading — it’s disciplined learning. It means understanding the theory, pr...

Ask. Learn. Grow.

Many students stay silent because they are afraid of sounding “slow” or “behind.” But the truth is ...

Why is the Waite Smith Tarot so popular?

Useful Japanese for Restaurants: “How Many People?” and “This Way, Please”

Have you ever felt nervous about entering a restaurant in Japan? Many learners worry about what the...

What is your favorite Pokémon?

Happy Pokémon Day!!!!  Here is a quick quizz to test your knowledge:  “I Choose You!” Who is Ash’...

Questions You Should Never Be Afraid to Ask Your Tutor

Taking lessons on Cafetalk should feel comfortable and supportive. Remember, your tutor is here to ...

English Idioms Challenge - Week 5

Hey all! This is the sixth weekly English learning challenge: to try & use this idiom in your...

When Things Don’t Go as Planned

What do you do when your plans fall apart? When anxiety gets loud, insecurity creeps in, and you fe...

Is Two Really Better Than One?

“They say two is better than one.” “No man is an island.” Both statements point to one truth: we ar...

Questions you should never be afraid to ask your tutor

As a tutor I noticed over the years, in order to be respectful and polite, students feel shy to ask...