I always start with RAISE, since it has the three most common vowels and two most common consonants. I often follow it up with CLOUD.
I go with RATES as it has common letters and can let you know whether or not you’re looking for a plural. Plus it’s a homage to one of Popjustice’s most beloved pastimes.
Actually I looked that up the other day, and from what I understand, the words are never (or at least have never been) plurals.
I do this daily and always get it right in Enlgish, French and German. I'm still waiting to get one right in my native language (Portuguese).