How to learn new vocabulary?

A common question, a common problem.

I can't remember the vocabulary! Don't worry, you're not alone. Me too! I can't remember all the Chinese words I'm trying to learn.

But try this. Actually use the new vocabulary and use it as much as possible over the next couple of days.
It's not enough just to understand this word means this. It's better to learn the new words in context, i.e. as it's used, either in a book, article or conversation.

Example.
Diaphanous

During summer many ladies wear a diaphanous top over their t-shirt. It's more fashionable, protects their skin from direct sunlight, yet allows air to easily pass through keeping her cool.

"She was wearing a diaphanous shirt so I could see what she was wearing underneath!"

Now, from these two examples, what do you think diaphanous means? Guess!

I hope you guessed. If you guessed something like see-through, transparent you are correct.
Now you have to use it!

Do you have any diaphanous clothing? (When you answer make sure you use the vocabulary word!)
   - Yes, I have a pink diaphanous shirt.

Now when you're walking down the street, or riding your scooter, and you see someone wearing a diaphanous top, say to yourself, "Ahh, that top is very diaphanous" Do this for a few days and congratulations, diaphanous, is now a part of your vocabulary.

Now do this for all your other vocab words. If this can work for a word that most native English speakers don't know, it can work for any other word too!