Tips on Learning a Language

Be realistic and set achievable goals
Don't expect quickly to become 'fluent' in a language. In fact you don't need to be 'fluent' to function effectively. 100 words will take you a long
way, 500 or 1000 even more. Take things step by step.

Don't expect it to be easy
Despite the enticing blurb on certain books and CD courses, learning a language is never going to be easy. You need to use active brain power to acquire and retain the language. But it can be fun and satisfying to develop your knowledge. Yes, it's a challenge but an enjoyable one!

Develop strategies to aid learning
There are many strategies to help in learning a language for instance memory aids when learning vocabulary, also note-taking and self-testing, constant repetition of words. Be aware of the techniques and use them.

Listen or watch online
Nowadays there are numerous opportunities to read or hear the language thanks to the internet. Go online and see what you can find. Don't worry if the level is too high, just look and listen and get a flavour of the language and culture.

Visit the country! Get real experience
There's no substitute for visiting the country and immersing yourself in the language environment. You can be a part of it by going into a shop or restaurant and using what you've learnt. It's very satisfying when you can cope with real situations in the foreign language and see an appreciative smile on the face of the person you're talking to.

Mistakes are good - they are are all part of learning the language
Many people are hyper-sensitive about making mistakes, but they are all part of the process of language learning. No one speaks any language perfectly. Even native speakers make mistakes, so don't worry about them, learn from them.

Be pleased with what you've achieved! Stick with it, don't drop out!
The reason why people find it daunting to learn a language is because we constantly compare ourselves with native speakers. But it's much better to focus on what you do know, rather than what you don't. Don't be discouraged, stick with it!

Join a class - get peer support
If you join a class you can get support from your teacher and fellow students. It can provide an enjoyable and sociable way of learning a
language.

Buy a self-study book
There are many self-study courses available, most at beginner level, some more advanced. They provide a framework for language learning with source material and exercises. They may also include audio recordings.

Get online training
There are courses you can follow online, and it's also possible to train using an online tutor. These can be effective, particularly if your hours
are more restricted or if you're based mainly at home.

Get one to one tutoring
The most effective way to learn a language is to work with an experienced tutor, who can focus their attention on you. A tutor can help build
confidence and offer personalised practice and feedback in a way that's not possible in a class.

There's no doubt if you want to progress and achieve success in a language, find a tutor!