Language learning discipline tip: anytime you hear/see a word you recognize but can’t remember precisely, look it up!

That's it, that's the tip.

When you're watching a movie or reading a book (or living your daily life, if you live in Japan), etc., there are often words you vaguely recognize but can't quite remember. It's easy to let them pass by and move on to the next thing. Build the habit of looking it up NO MATTER WHAT.

It really pays off.

This also applies if you remember a word but don't remember the kanji that go with it, etc.