Language learning requires its own set of principles, and it’s clear that good advice never goes out of style. So here is a no-nonse guide with the rules to follow if you want to get the most out of language learning:
- It’s not a race to the end: There is no finish line to run to, it’s all about always getting better.
- Consistency is key: Don’t do a learning session every few weeks. Try to set aside 15 minutes each day.
- Forgive language slip-ups: It’s okay to make mistakes; just learn from them.
- Invest in language resources: High-quality language learning books such as reference grammar and vocabulary guides will give you an idea of what you want to and what you will need to learn.
- Keep it Simple: Using advanced words and structures that you don’t fully understand can make you sound more foreign than you are.
- Practice with native speakers: The everyday spoken language is not what you find in textbooks.
- Read and listen extensively in your target language: It exposes you to diverse vocabulary and sentence structures.
- Admit when you don’t understand: Asking for clarification improves communication.
- Don’t overwhelm yourself: You don’t have to learn every word in the dictionary; focus on essentials.
- Don’t pay too much attention to your accent: It takes time to eliminate the accent, and so what good is impeccable pronunciation if you are still fumbling for words.
- Embrace the culture: Language and culture are intertwined. Try to understand people better. Nonverbal communication matters a lot.
- Offer to teach others: Teaching reinforces your own understanding.
- When someone corrects your language, thank them: Appreciate those helping you improve.
- Ignore the naysayers: Not everyone will believe in your ambitious goals, but skepticism comes often from the cheap seats.
- Celebrate little successes: It’s not often that you take a big stride. Celebrate small steps toward fluency.