The 'danger tourist' Mykhailo Polyakov previously visited Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Credit: Screenshot, Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov / YouTubeAn aspiring YouTube influencer and self-described danger tourist was arrested by authorities in India after allegedly attempting to contact one of the worlds last uncontacted Indigenous tribes. The 24-year-old US national Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov was taken into custody on March 29 at 10am local time after returning from his overnight journey to North Sentinel Island, home to an estimated 100 Sentinelese inhabitants. His meticulously planned trip involved multiple scouting excursions and required sailing across 23 miles of notoriously dangerous Indian Ocean waters in an inflatable raft he modified with an outboard motor.Authorities said Polyakov then spent an hour floating offshore in his boat, blowing a whistle in an attempt to signal the Sentinelese. Afterwards, he landed on the beach for about five minutes to record footage on a GoPro camera, collect souvenir sand samples, and leave a coconut and a can of Coke as gifts. No one ever emerged to meet him, but this was potentially to Polyakovs benefit. He was at risk of becoming the fourth confirmed intruder killed by the Sentinelese over the past two decades.North Sentinel Island (seen above) is home to around 100 remaining members of the Sentinelese tribe. Credit: DirectGlobe via Getty Images An estimated 100200 uncontacted Indigenous tribes are believed to still exist around the world, arguably the most famous of which are the internationally protected, voluntarily isolated Sentinelese people. Around 100 inhabitants split across three main groups are thought to remain on North Sentinel Island, located about 740 miles from the Indian mainland. Part of the broader Andamenese people, the Sentinelese have lived on the Manhattan-sized island for as long as 55,000 years.While reports of Sentinelese violence occasionally veer into sensationalism, its still illegal to attempt meeting them. It also can be dangerousand not just for the visitors. History and immunology has shown repeatedly that communities in isolation from one another are extremely vulnerable to unfamiliar pathogens.Its very well known by now that uncontacted peoples have no immunity to common outside diseases like flu or measles, which could completely wipe them out, Caroline Pearce, director of the nonprofit advocacy group Survival International, said in a statement.As such, any interactions are done when only necessary, with care, and with respect. Earlier this year, a member of an uncontacted Amazonian tribe voluntarily visited the rural Brazilian village of Bela Rosa. After contacting authorities, experts from Brazils Fundao Nacional dos Povos Indgenas (National Foundation of Indigenous Peoples) arrived to escort him to a nearby hospital in order to ensure his health and safety.It beggars belief that someone could be that reckless and idiotic, Pearce continued on Wednesday. This persons actions not only endangered his own life, they put the lives of the entire Sentinelese tribe at risk.Despite current restrictions on interactions, uncontacted tribes around the world face increased threats from encroaching business interests, deforestation, and land-grabbing. Although she commended Indian authorities apprehension of Polyakov, Pearce explained the nations government poses problems for its own isolated Indigenous communities.Get our daily newsletter. Breakthroughs, discoveries, and DIY tips sent every weekday.The uncontacted Shompen of Great Nicobar Island, not far from North Sentinel, will be wiped out if India goes ahead with its plan to transform their island into the Hong Kong of India, argued Pearce, referring to controversial plans to construct a multibillion-dollar, 650,000-resident town from scratch that includes a shipping port, international airport, and power plant.The common factor in all these cases is governments refusal to abide by international law and recognize and protect uncontacted peoples territories.Its currently unclear what will ultimately happen to Petrykov, whose most recent YouTube uploads document a trip to Taliban-governed regions of Afghanistan. Not only is it illegal to contact isolated tribes in India, but its also against the law to photograph or record videos of them. If found guilty, Poryakovs latest danger tourist excursion could result in a 35 year prison sentence.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more Whether youre a lifelong vinyl lover or just starting to explore the format, theres something special about the turntable experience. Maybe its the tactile ritual of flipping through album sleeves or how warm analog sound makes even your most well-loved music feel inviting. No matter what draws you to the format, youre in good companywith the vinyl revival in full swing, nows a great time to embark on your audio explorations. And the best beginner turntables let you experience the magic of LPs without the complexity of an elaborate hi-fi setup or frequent maintenance (though there are some basic accessories you should consider).Thats where we come in. Whether youre after an all-on-one vinyl record player with speakers, a Bluetooth-enabled setup for modern convenience, or a fully manual deck for a more hands-on experience, weve rounded up starter decks to get you spinning in style. So, before you go raiding the nearest record store in search of an elusive White Album first pressing or the exclusive remastered edition ofBarrio Fino, pick one of our top turntableslike the Fluance RT85Nfor a great experience that doesnt require a PhD in sound systems.Best overall: Fluance RT85NBest splurge: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVOBest value: U-Turn Orbit PlusBest connectivity: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USBBest budget: Crosley CR8005F-WO CruiserHow we chose the best entry-level turntablesFinding the perfect turntable is like crate diggingyou have to know what to look and listen for. Selecting the best entry-level turntables wasnt about finding the cheapest options or the models with the most bells and whistles. Instead, we focused on sound quality, ease of use, build quality, and features that make life easier for new vinyl enthusiasts, such as:User-friendly design We prioritized turntables that wont require a weekend of YouTube tutorials to set up.Models with and without built-in phono preamps A turntables signal is much quieter than most audio sources, so it needs a phono preamp to boost it to line level. Some turntables have a built-in preamp for plug-and-play convenience, while others require an external one for more customization. Weve included both models here.Solid performance Your records should sound good, whether youre spinning a $1 bin find or a 180-gram rare audiophile pressing. That requires a turntable that offers smooth, stable playback and minimal distortion without unnecessary wear.Modern conveniences While purists may turn their noses down at Bluetooth, we know many beginners want the option to stream to wireless speakers. Weve got recommendations for that, too.Value for your dollar You shouldnt have to take out a second mortgage to enjoy good sound. We made sure every pick offers serious value at its price point.The best beginner turntables: Reviews & RecommendationsWe tested and researched a range of turntables, leaning on expert reviews, feedback from our vinyl-obsessed coworkers and friends, and our own hands-on experience. Whether youre looking for a budget-friendly starter model, a splurge-worthy setup, or something in between, weve got a deck for you. (We can even show you how to DIY your own wind-powered turntable if thats your jam.)Best overall: Fluance RT85NThe Fluance RT85 is a record player built for music fans who want to get the absolute most out of their vinyl collection.ProsDeep, defined bassUltra-stable acrylic platterBuilt like a tankConsNo built-in phono preampGlossy fingerprint can be a mirror and fingerprint magnetSpecsTurntable operation: Semi-automaticBuilt-in phono preamp: NoDrive mechanism: Belt drivePlayback speeds: 33-1/3 and 45 RPMWhy it made the cut: This all-around performer punches above its price class by combining high-end componentsincluding an acrylic platter and a Nagaoka MP-110 cartridgewith thoughtful engineering that minimizes vibrations for clear, detailed sound.Fluance has built a reputation for delivering high-quality turntables at budget-friendly prices, and the RT85N is a standout in its lineup. Designed for vinyl lovers who want audiophile-grade performance without breaking the bank, this $499 belt-driven turntable is packed with premium materials and smart design choices, including an acrylic platter, an isolated motor, and a Nagaoka MP-110 cartridgea combination that delivers warm, detailed, and immersive sound. (The original Fluance RT85, one of our favorite turntables under $500, comes with an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge shown above, which is still an excellent moving magnet.)Its acrylic platter isnt just for looksit adds mass and dampens resonances, helping to reduce distortion and improve clarity. The servo-controlled belt drive ensures consistent speed stability, while height-adjustable, vibration-isolating feet keep external interference at bay. The Nagaoka MP-110 cartridge is known for its smooth, balanced tone, making it a great choice for those who want natural sound with plenty of depth.Unlike some beginner turntables, the RT85N does not include a built-in preamp, meaning youll need an external phono stage or a receiver with a phono input. While this adds an extra step, it also lets you fine-tune your setup now and upgrade individual components over time.For those ready to invest in a turntable that bridges the gap between entry-level and audiophile sound, the Fluance RT85N delivers premium performance at an unbeatable value.For a more budget-friendly alternative, consider Fluances popular RT81, which comes with a lighter aluminum platter and an Audio-Technica AT95E cartridge, delivering impressive sound at just $249. If you want even more convenience, an RT81+ version includes a built-in phono preamp for $299, making it an easy, all-in-one solution for beginners who want great sound without extra gear. (We have one of these in our home, and it performs like a champ.)Best splurge: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVOPro-Ject ProsUpdated materials significantly upgrade performanceOne-piece carbon-fiber tonearm improves trackingEasy speed switchingConsCostRequires external preampSpecsTurntable operation: ManualBuilt-in phono preamp: NoDrive mechanism: Belt drivePlayback speeds: 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPMWhy it made the cut: The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO upgrades a beloved turntable with a heavier, dampened platter, improved vibration resistance, and a high-quality Sumiko Rainier cartridge, making it a top choice for beginners who want audiophile-level performance from the start.Pro-Ject has spent a decade perfecting its Debut Carbon line, and the Carbon EVO is its most refined version yet. This manual belt-driven turntable eschews unnecessary mechanical components to minimize noise and maximize clarity, making it a favorite among those who want pure, uncolored sound.One of its biggest upgrades is the heavier steel platter, now lined with a TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) damping ring that reduces unwanted resonances for more stable, distortion-free listening. A vibration-resistant plinth with height-adjustable metal feet isolates the turntable from external vibrations, keeping playback smooth. (You can improve the playback of any turntable on this list by investing in pucks by IsoAcoustics, which we have and use because they audibly tighten up the soundstage.)The tonearma lightweight yet rigid one-piece carbon fiber designhas also been refined and comes factory-equipped with a pre-installed Sumiko Rainier cartridge for better detail retrieval and improved tracking. Unlike in previous models, speed change is controllable via a switch, eliminating the need to manually move the belt.The Debut Carbon EVO does not include a built-in phono preamp, so youll need to pair it with an external phono stage or an A/V receiver/DAC-amp with a dedicated phono in (and then maybe a pair of flagship headphones while youre at it). But for those who want a turntable built for long-term sonic satisfaction, this upgrade-packed model delivers exceptional performance at a reasonable splurge price of $599. With sleek styling and a choice of nine hand-painted finishes (high-gloss and satin options), it looks as good as it sounds.Best value: U-Turn Orbit PlusSarah Jones ProsHand-assembled in the U.S.A. with great build quality and attention to detailCan choose a built-in preamp for plug-and-play convenienceCustomizable design: choose color, add a cue lever, or upgrade the cartridgeConsChanging speeds requires moving the beltFully manual operation; cue lever sold separatelySpecsTurntable operation: ManualBuilt-in phono preamp: Available with or withoutDrive mechanism: Belt drivePlayback speeds: 33-1/3 and 45 RPMWhy it made the cut: This style-y spinner delivers high-quality sound, solid craftsmanship, and upgradeabilitywithout the high price tag.The U-Turn Orbit Plus is a minimalist turntable with a maximalist sound, perfect for those who want high-quality playback without unnecessary complications. Hand-assembled in the U.S.A., this $399 belt-driven deck ($479 with built-in preamp) features a low-noise AC synchronous motor and an acrylic platter, which helps maintain speed stability and reduces resonance for cleaner sound.Its OA3 precision gimbal tonearm, made from ultra-light magnesium, improves tracking accuracy and reduces distortion, while the pre-installed Ortofon OM 5e cartridge delivers balanced, detailed playback no matter what musical genre youre grooving to. Built-in phono preamp? Check. That means you can plug it straight into powered speakers or an amplifier without extra gear.The manual speed change (which requires physically moving the belt) may be a minor inconvenience. Still, overall, Orbit Plus offers excellent performance at an approachable price, with the added bonus of customizable colors and upgradesmaking it an ideal first turntable that can grow with you. For a seamless, stylish setup, pair the Orbit Plus with U-Turns Ethos powered speakers (shown above), which deliver rich, analog sound in a sleek, minimalist designavailable in multiple finishes to match your space. (Need more ideas for turntable speakers? Weve got you.)Best connectivity: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USBTony Ware ProsConnect wirelessly to speakers, headphones, and receiversUse USB to digitize your vinyl collectionDJ-style pitch shifting and stroboscopic dotsConsManual operationSpecsTurntable operation: ManualBuilt-in phono preamp: Yes (switchable)Drive mechanism: Direct drivePlayback speeds: 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPMWhy it made the cut: The Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB combines classic DJ-style design with modern conveniences like Bluetooth streaming, USB connectivity, and a built-in phono preampall at a competitive price.If you like your vinyl retro but seek 21st-century conveniences, the AT-LP120XBT-USB delivers. This fully manual, direct-drive turntable delivers the flexibility to connect via Bluetooth, USB, or standard RCA cables, making it a great fit for casual listeners and anyone looking to digitize their vinyl collection. Audio-Technica even produces its own cartridges, so you know the signal path is optimized.Aesthetically and, in ways, mechanically inspired by the iconic Technics SL-1200, its direct-drive motor ensures speed stability, while pitch control lets you fine-tune playbackperfect for casual listeners and budding DJs alike. A built-in phono stage allows plug-and-play operation, and aptX Bluetooth support ensures better-than-basic wireless audiobut if youre after the purest analog experience, you can save some money by opting for the wired-only AT-LP120XUSB model. Still, at $399, the AT-LP120XBT-USB is a solid investment in both sound quality and convenience.Of course, before this turntable, you might have done all your listening streaming on a wireless surround sound system, which is typically a single brandlets say Sonos. With Bluetooth or the right adapters, this turntable will fit right in. Or, if you want full fidelity with less leads, Victrola has a turntable specifically for that Wi-Fi ecosystem.Best affordable portable: Crosley CR8005F-WO CruiserTony Ware ProsLightweight and portableBuilt-in speakers for an all-in-one listening experienceBluetooth streamingInexpensiveConsBasic-at-best sonic qualitiesHeavy tracking can wear down records fasterSpecsTurntable operation: ManualBuilt-in phono preamp: YesDrive mechanism: Belt drivePlayback speeds: 33-1/3, 45, and 78 RPMWhy it made the cut: The Crosley Cruiser is a cute, compact, ultra-portable turntable that makes it easy for kids (and just the young at heart) to explore the world of vinyl without a complicated setup or a hefty price tag.The Crosley Cruiser is all about fun. This lightweight, suitcase-style turntable with speakers built-in is designed for easy, plug-and-play vinyl enjoyment. Theres even Bluetooth connectivity wrapped in a colorful retro aesthetic. Its a nostalgic, low-stakes way to get into vinylno extra gear required. The Cruiser supports three speeds to spin everything from modern LPs to old-school singles. Will it deliver audiophile-grade sound? Not even close. But for less than the price of a single (nosebleed) concert ticket, your kid can play all the music they want, anytime they want. And when theyre ready to upgrade, theyll already have the vinyl bug. Were showing the white ostrich option (its vinyl; no real ostriches were harmed), but there are dozens more colorways.For another fun suitcase-style option, Victrolas Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Record Player ($50) offers a similar all-in-one package with funky flair. If you want something just as beginner-friendly but with a bit more sonic power, consider the 1 by ONE High Fidelity Turntablea more stationary all-in-one that trades portability for bigger built-in sound.What to consider when choosing the best beginner turntableManual vs. automatic operationTurntables come in manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic varieties. Manual models require you to place the needle on the record and lift it when its donegreat for the full vinyl experience, but it takes a little practice. Automatic turntables do the heavy lifting, starting and stopping playback with the push of a buttonperfect for those who are new to spinning records or rocking jittery caffeine hands.Built-in preamp vs. external preampA phono preamp boosts your turntables signal so it can be heard through speakers. Some turntables have a built-in preamp for plug-and-play convenience, while others require an external preamp (either standalone or built into a receiver). If youre just getting started, a turntable with a built-in preamp simplifies thingsthough going with an external preamp lets you customize your rig for better sound quality down the line.Belt drive vs. direct driveBelt-drive turntables use a belt to spin the platter. This setup isolates motor vibrations, which improves sound quality, and belt drive turntables tend to be more affordable and easier to maintain than direct-drive turntables. With direct-drive turntables, the motor is directly under the platter, offering faster spin-up time and better speed stability and durability, making them popular with DJs.Are you a vinyl purist, or do you want modern conveniences? Bluetooth turntables let you stream wirelessly to speakers or headphones, while USB models let you digitize your records. Many portable turntables, such as the Crosley Cruiser profiled here, even have built-in speakers, though theyre usually best for casual listening. Decide whether you want a fully analog experience or features that make your sound system more flexible.It pays to get the best turntable you can affordIf youre serious about vinyl and plan to build a collection of expensive or rare records, investing in a high-quality turntable is worth itbetter components mean better sound and less wear on your records over time. But if youre just spinning thrift-store finds or have inherited a stack of albums and want a fun, casual listening experience, a budget-friendly model will still let you enjoy the magic of vinyl without overcommitting.FAQsQ: Does vinyl sound better? Whether vinyl sounds better depends on your ears and what youre comparing it to. Vinyl has a warmer, more organic sound that many people love, thanks to its analog nature and subtle imperfections. However, a poorly pressed record or a low-quality turntable can sound worse than a well-mastered digital file. If you want the best vinyl experience, a good turntable, cartridge, and speakers make all the difference. Q: Do I need to buy speakers for my turntable? Whether you need to buy speakers for a turntable depends on the type of turntable you choose. Some models have built-in speakers, but theyre usually small and lack depth. If your turntable has a built-in preamp, you can connect it directly to powered speakers. If it doesnt have a preamp, youll need both an external preamp and a set of speakersbookshelf or floor-standing, whatever fits your spaceto get the best sound. Q: Are there any dangers with cheap turntables? Yes, cheap turntables can be dangerous for your records if they have poorly made tonearms and exert heavy tracking force. Some budget turntables can wear out vinyl quickly because the needle applies too much pressure, damaging the grooves over time. Think of it like this: You wouldnt put premium gas in a clunker car, so why spend $50 on a pristine vinyl record just to play it on a $50 turntable? If you want your collection to last, invest in a beginner-friendly turntable with an adjustable counterweight and a replaceable cartridge to protect your records and improve sound quality. Final thoughts on the best beginner turntable for youBest overall: Fluance RT85NBest splurge: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVOBest value: U-Turn Orbit PlusBest connectivity: Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USBBest kid-friendly all-in-one: Crosley CR8005F-WO CruiserGetting into vinyl is about much more than listening to musicits a truly immersive experience. The satisfaction of dropping the needle, the rich, dynamic sound, the thrill of discovering a hidden gem in a dusty record binits all part of the magic. But perhaps the best part is how vinyl brings you closer to the music. Unlike playlists running in the background of your life, vinyl listening is an active experience that puts the music front and center. It invites you to slow down, sit back, and truly listen.Whether you want a plug-and-play turntable or something with room to grow, theres a perfect option out there for you. Just remember: Your records are an investment, so treat them right with a turntable that wont grind them into dust. Start with something solid, upgrade when youre ready, and, most importantly, enjoy the music.

Nature, Published online: 03 April 2025; doi:10.1038/d41586-025-01021-2In a world of constant stimulation, the thalamus filters which thoughts we become aware of and which we dont.

Nature, Published online: 03 April 2025; doi:10.1038/s41586-025-08951-xStrategic atom replacement enables regiocontrol in pyrazole alkylation

The innovative SwitchBot air purifier table is a game-changer for pet owners.

A new view of the Helix Nebula reveals a dying white dwarf star at the nebula's center. This star's violent eating habits could be responsible for strange X-ray emissions in the region.

Photo Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, W. Balmer (JHU), L. Pueyo (STScI), M. Perrin (STScI) Webb's NIRCam captured Eridani 51 b, a young exoplanet, 11 billion miles from its star. HighlightsJWSTs coronagraphs were modified to enhance exoplanet imagingHR 8799 planets were captured in mid-infrared wavelengthsCarbon dioxide detection confirms core accretion planetary formationAdvertisementAstronomers have released new images of planets within the HR 8799 and 51 Eridani star systems. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) was used in a way that was different from standard procedures to achieve these results. Capturing direct images of exoplanets is challenging due to the brightness of host stars, which often obscures planetary details. To allow more light through, researchers adjusted JWST's coronagraphs. This helps in enhancing the visibility of these distant worlds. This adjustment provided clearer insights into planetary atmospheres and their compositions.Unconventional Use of JWST's CoronagraphsAccording to a study published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, lead author William Balmer, a Ph.D. candidate at Johns Hopkins University, explained to Space.com that a thinner part of the coronagraph mask was used. This allowed more starlight to diffract, reducing the risk of completely obscuring planets. Coronagraphs typically block starlight to reveal faint celestial bodies, but this modification provided a balance between removing excessive glare and preserving planetary details.Key Discoveries and ObservationsThe JWST's mid-infrared imaging captured HR 8799 at 4.6 microns. It is a wavelength that is mainly blocked by Earth's atmosphere. Balmer stated that previous ground-based attempts had failed, demonstrating JWST's stability in detecting exoplanets. Observations at 4.3 microns were also conducted. This revealed the presence of carbon dioxide. It is a very important step in determining the planetary formation processes. The detected carbon dioxide levels suggested that these planets likely formed through core accretion, gathering heavy elements over time.Future Research and Expanding StudiesThere are many research planned to study the four additional planetary systems. Balmer's team has been allocated more JWST observation time to confirm whether similar gas giants formed through core accretion. This could offer more insights into the stability of planetary systems and potential habitability of smaller, unseen planets. For the latest tech news and reviews, follow Gadgets 360 on X, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads and Google News. For the latest videos on gadgets and tech, subscribe to our YouTube channel. If you want to know everything about top influencers, follow our in-house Who'sThat360 on Instagram and YouTube. Further reading: JWST, HR 8799, 51 Eridani, exoplanets, space exploration, astronomy, NASA Gadgets 360 Staff The resident bot. If you email me, a human will respond. More Related Stories

Photo Credit: SpaceX SpaceX launched the Fram2 mission into polar orbit on March 31, 2025, from Kennedy Space Center. HighlightsFram2 is the first astronaut mission to orbit over both poles.SpaceX launched the private mission on March 31.Crew is conducting space-based medical and biological research.AdvertisementThe first astronauts to orbit over both of Earth's poles have shared new images from their journey. SpaceX launched the private Fram2 mission on March 31, sending four first-time astronauts into a polar orbit. The mission lifted off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center and reached the orbit shortly after with the Crew Dragon spacecraft. The trajectory allowed the crew members to witness and document some of the most remotest regions of the planet. Interestingly, the images from the mission show views of the Arctic and Antarctic, which were never seen from a crewed spacecraft before.Mission Details and Crew MembersAccording to reports, the mission is led by Chun Wang from Malta, who personally funded the journey. Serving as vehicle commander is Jannicke Mikkelsen from Norway, with German astronaut Rabea Rogge as mission pilot. Australian crew member Eric Phillips is onboard as mission specialist and medical officer. SpaceX confirmed that the mission is the first to place astronauts in a true polar orbit, a path typically reserved for satellite launches.Scientific Research on BoardAs per mission details, nearly two dozen experiments are being conducted during the flight. Among these is the first attempt to grow mushrooms in microgravity. The crew is also performing medical studies. The studies also include the first-ever X-ray scans taken in space. Additional research focuses on the effects of weightlessness on muscles and bones. These studies aim to provide insights for future long-duration space missions.Landing Plans and Future MissionsFram2 is expected to remain in orbit for two to four days. SpaceX has announced that Resilience will re-enter Earth's atmosphere for a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. This marks a shift in recovery operations away from Florida to reduce risks associated with debris. Future missions are likely to follow a similar landing procedure. For the latest tech news and reviews, follow Gadgets 360 on X, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads and Google News. For the latest videos on gadgets and tech, subscribe to our YouTube channel. If you want to know everything about top influencers, follow our in-house Who'sThat360 on Instagram and YouTube. Further reading: Fram2, SpaceX, polar orbit, astronauts, Crew Dragon, space exploration, Earth images Gadgets 360 Staff The resident bot. If you email me, a human will respond. More

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How can I use GPT to create vocabulary tests for myself?Education AIFollow2 min readJust now--Can we really leave real life tutors and teachers behind in favor of Artificial Intelligence when it comes to vocabulary learning?Yes, we are probably at that point in 2025!Heres a simple, practical guide to using GPT to create vocabulary tests for yourself whether youre building general vocabulary, preparing for exams like IELTS, or focusing on a specific theme.Step 1: Pick Your Vocabulary FocusDecide what kind of words you want to practise:By Level or Use: Everyday/basic vocabulary Advanced words (e.g. for essays or formal writing) Academic or test prep (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL, SAT) Synonyms & antonymsBy Theme: Travel Business Emotions Food Technology Anything you like!Step 2: Ask GPT to Make a TestUse a clear, specific prompt depending on the type of test you want. Multiple Choice Example:Create a 10-question multiple choice test on advanced English vocabulary. Each question should ask for the definition of a word. Include 4 options and provide an answer key. Synonyms or Antonyms:Make 5 synonym and 5 antonym questions using intermediate-level English vocabulary. Use a multiple-choice format. Fill in the Blank:Write a 10-question fill-in-the-blank vocabulary test using business English terms. Include an answer key. Word Usage (Contextual):Give me 8 sentences with one missing word in each. The missing word should be an advanced adjective. Provide a word bank and an answer key. Definitions Match:List 8 vocabulary words about emotions. Mix them up with 8 definitions and ask me to match them.Step 3: Test YourselfDo the test first without help then check your answers and look up unfamiliar words if needed.Step 4: Go DeeperAsk GPT follow-up questions like: Use each word in a different sentence. Give me 3 synonyms and 1 antonym for each word. Make a new test with the words I got wrong.Turn these words into a short story.Try it out and let me know how you get on!