How to learn kanji readings through words
Learn on and kun readings with common Japanese words, rather than guessing one reading for every character.
Start with the complete word
Learn 学校 as がっこう (school) and 学生 as がくせい (student). The written characters alone do not tell you every sound change. Store the reading together with the word and meaning.
On and kun are useful categories
On readings have their origin in Chinese readings adapted into Japanese. Kun readings are associated with native Japanese words. Many compounds use on readings, but this is a pattern, not a rule that reliably predicts every word.
Notice kana endings
In 食べる (たべる, to eat), the kana べる are part of the written word. Learn the whole form. 食 also appears in 食事 (しょくじ, meal), with a different reading.
Try a short example
日本語を勉強しています。 — I am studying Japanese. Reading: にほんごをべんきょうしています。 Look up 日本語 and 勉強 separately, then read the sentence again.
Explore the words
Dictionary readings and meanings can be checked in the linked entries. Writing models use AnimCJK; individual writing conventions can vary. Source notices.