Keeping a diary in English is one of the effective ways (improve) our English writing ability.
Compared with other forms of writing, it is shorter and takes (little) time. It can help us to develop the habit of thinking in English. If we persist (坚持) in this practice, gradually we’ll learn how to express ourselves in English. In keeping a diary in English, we certainly run up against many (difficult). In the first place, it often happens that we have trouble (find) appropriate words and phrases to give expression to our mind. Secondly, there (be) many idiomatic ways of saying things in Chinese. And it is extremely hard for us to put them into English (proper).
As far as I am (concern), my suggestion is we should always have a notebook and a Chinese-English dictionary within easy reach. Whenever something beats us, we can first put it down in our notebook and then consult our dictionary. We can also ask our English teacher help, if necessary. In short, I believe that it is of great use to keep a diary in English for development of our writing skills.