Tips on How to Learn a Foreign Language Quickly

You can practice your foreign language skills in a variety of ways.

Acquiring any new skill can be a daunting task, and learning a new language on your own -- without the benefit of formal, classroom-based language instruction -- is no exception. Simply put, reading a dictionary or phrasebook is not going to cover all the aspects involved with learning a new language. There are many helpful learning methods to aid you as you go, however. Immersing yourself as much as possible in your target language is the key to fluency. With ever advancing technology and a shrinking globe, learning a new language has never been easier.

Things You'll Need

• Target language flashcards
• Blank flashcards
• Dictionary
• Magazines and newspapers in target language

Instructions

1. Buy a set of language flashcards in your target language. Flashcards come in sets for vocabulary and grammar. Go through the cards -- or a portion of them -- whenever you have a spare moment. You can use them at your desk, during lunch or even on your commute.

2. Read magazines and newspapers in your new language. In the process, use a highlighter to mark any words you are not familiar with. Be sure to have a dictionary readily available so that you can look up these words. This step assumes, however, that you have at least a basic familiarity with the language in question.

3. Write new words you come across while reading newspapers, magazines or books on blank flashcards. Try to work these words into your daily repertoire of language instruction and practice.

4. Take advantage of various media offerings. For example, listen to podcasts in your new language. You can find many news broadcasts in a variety of languages as well. Watch movies in your target language, using the subtitle option to aid in comprehension.

5. Use memory tricks to grab as much vocabulary as quickly as possible. Rote repetition can be tedious and often does little to help solidify knowledge of the language. The use of mnemonic devices -- a system of association -- will help you remember new words when you need them most. Here, learning is aided by associating vocabulary with easily remembered words, phrases, images and ideas.

6. Utilize hidden, seemingly unproductive moments in your day for learning and practicing your language. Listen to news podcasts while brushing your teeth or washing the dishes, for example. If you look hard enough, there should be plenty of five to 10 minute time increments that you can take advantage of for language learning purposes.

References

• "How to Learn Any Language"; Barry Farber; 1991
• Omniglot; Language Learning Tips; Simon Ager; 2011

Resources

• Livemocha.com