Why You Should Stay Awake in English Class

Let’s be perfectly honest and upfront. You are reading this because at some point you’re more than likely to have sat in English class and thought; Why am I learning this stuff? When am I ever going to use this in real life? 

Maybe these thoughts floated into your mind while you were supposed to be analysing a poem which felt like it was written by someone from a different planet. Or perhaps you were scratching out another piece of comprehension where you were being asked to discuss your viewpoint with evidence on a subject that was meaningless to you.

Here’s the thing (and it's something that should have been explained to you long before now…or perhaps it was and you weren't quite ready to hear the truth): English class isn’t just about memorizing quotes or figuring out what a blue curtain symbolizes. It’s about teaching you how to think clearly, communicate confidently, and understand the world that surrounds and impacts you, better — it is no exaggeration to say these are skills you'll need for literally everything you do in life.

Whether you want to be a YouTuber, a farmer, a nurse, a game designer, a pilot, or someone who just wants to persuade other people to do what you want all the time, English gives you the tools and skills for your life journey far beyond the classroom.

This deceptively simple-looking little guide is packed with tips, examples, checklists, and fun exercises that will help you see and understand exactly how English connects to your future — no matter what that is going to look like.

You don’t have to love Shakespeare to appreciate what English can do for you.
Are you ready to find out why English really matters?
Let’s dive in.