How to Learn Lines Quickly and Well

Line learning is a crucial part of any actor's routine. So we've covered all the bases on how to learn lines quickly and well. And for Dyslexic students, we've got some tailored pointers just for you...

Read the lines aloud
This works so much better than just reading them to yourself! 

Practise with someone else
It doesn't have to be another actor. It can be family, close friends, whoever is around! You'll learn your own lines much faster, get a better sense of what the scene is about and be faster at recognising your cues. 

Have someone correct you
One of the biggest mistakes actors often make is learning the wrong lines, or learning lines that are almost right. Get someone to immediately correct you when you say the wrong word, then go back to the start of the line and say it again. Repetition is a great way to get lines into your head.

Working alone? Download an app!
Apps like Line Learner or Rehearsal Pro allow you to record or upload the other person's lines so that you can work on your stuff alone.

Dyslexic students: here are some extra ones...

Let's get one thing straight. Having Dyslexia doesn't mean you're any worse than other actors. It just means your brain processes language in a different way to other people. Here are some extra tips that will speed up your line learning process. 

Print your script on coloured paper
The brain picks up so much more when it's not stuck in black and white! 

Practise often and with breaks
It's so much better to do a good 20 minutes of work than to struggle on for an hour because you're worried you're not doing enough work. When you feel that you need a break, take one. Go for a walk, do some exercise, go to the shops. Do something completely different for a while, then return to the lines. You'll be surprised how much your brain soaks up in your downtime. 

Know what your brain needs
If you like to read, then great. If this isn't how your brain picks up lines, try another way! Record yourself or someone else speaking them through and listen to them instead. You could also try mind-mapping the scene, or using colour-coding, post-its and different highlighters. 

Working with Dyslexia

Dyslexia is recognised throughout the industry (1 in 3 actors have it!), so whether you're at an audition, casting, rehearsal, let your director or facilitator know if you need extra time to read something through. Saying "I'm Dyslexic" does not put you at any disadvantage, what it will do is allow the people around you to understand what you need and how they can help, giving you the space to relax and focus on your work.

Happy line learning!