How many languages can you speak? How many can you understand? If you want to learn a new language, then you are in for something fun and interesting.
Sure, it can get intimidating at first. You may think, “It looks like a lot of work!” But bear in mind that there are two major ways to learn something new—the long and strenuous way and the easy and stress-free way.
Of course, you want the easy way! That’s why you are here. Don’t worry, we got your back. Read on to learn the quickest way to learn a new language.
Eight No-Fuss Steps to Learning a New Language Quickly
- Set a goal. Before jumping into the wagon, set a goal first. Why do you want to learn a new language? Is this for your next trip? Do you want to apply for a job that requires you to speak a specific lingo? Goals can help you determine your timeline.
Specifically, set a SMART goal. It means something specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. Grab your pen and paper or your mobile notepad and list down your SMART goal by identifying and describing each part in the word SMART.
- Study the “right” words. Learning a new language does not mean knowing all the words in a specific dialect right away. Imagine how you can learn one million words in three months. It’s unimaginable, especially because new words may come every now and then.
Lucky for you, you only need to master the top 100 to 1000 words in order to speak and understand 50–90 percent of a certain language. Just make sure you are studying the basic and the most used words.
- Work smart. In learning a new language, this can also mean studying smart. When you want to learn a new language quickly, you should choose the best study techniques. For example, making use of flashcards (hardcopy or electronic) lets you focus on individual words and allow you to quiz yourself.
You can also use language apps, which contain focus words, sample sentences, and quizzes.
- Practice speaking the language on a regular basis. Practice makes perfect—we have been told many times. In learning a new language, setting a regular practice session is the key to reaching the master level. Establish a specific time for practice.
You can divide one hour into two—30 minutes during lunch break and another 30 minutes before bedtime. You can also practice during your travel time, to and from work, while being stuck in traffic.
- Find a language partner. This can be the most effective study technique. When you have a language partner, you can practice some dialogues and that would speed up your learning process.
If you can’t locate a partner offline, you can find several options online. Check out the best translation website. Use a language partner site. You will be amazed that chatting is as effective as talking to someone in person.
- Get to know the culture. Apart from learning the right words, it will also help if you study about the country’s culture. If you understand the culture, a deeper understanding of the language will follow—for instance, its origin and the things connected to specific words.
Also, keep in mind that some cultures have taboos. Knowing what these are will save you from the embarrassment of speaking something offensive.
- Be patient. Patience is a virtue that you will need to carry out in learning a new language. Don’t be hard on yourself. Practice regularly and patiently. If you cannot remember a word, don’t be discouraged. Just get back to your flashcards or your dictionary and learn again.
- Enjoy the process. Last but not least, have fun! If you enjoy the learning process, you will absorb new pieces of information more quickly. A good way to have fun while learning is to study things that you find stimulating.
For instance, you can watch short films or instructional videos about your hobbies in your target language.
Are you ready to learn a new language? Follow our steps and speak a new language very soon!