Always wanted to learn a new language, but don’t really have the means to hire a tutor?
Photo via New Atlas
There are many reasons why some people want to learn a new language… Maybe you’ve been loving a new TV show that’s in another language, or you want to communicate better when travelling, or you’re just interested in the language?
Don’t worry, there’s always a way for you to learn a new language without spending an arm and a leg on a private tutor. Just learn it yourself at home, and here’s how you can make that happen according to Babbel.
#1 Work on tasks that match your skill level
Start with the basics!
Beginners should always start with the basics, like how to say “Hello” and the common verbs, the important adjectives, and how to count!
For the more advanced learners, you have more freedom to study what you want and how you want. Maybe you just want to start refreshing what you’ve already learned in school? You can find a book or a TV show that is in the language to help you improve your understanding of the language.
#2 Learn the language as it’s really spoken
Let’s be honest, learning a whole new language on your own is undoubtedly the hardest thing ever. So, just reading the words of the language won’t really help you because then you won’t know how it actually sounds when you speak it.
...and that is why you must supplement your learning by listening to native speakers and practicing the sound yourself! Listening to podcasts is a great start to learning a new language. You can even watch some TV shows or movies, without the English subtitles!
#3 Try not to overload your brain
Slow and steady wins the race!
Yes, it’s exciting to learn a new language, but if you think you should study for two hours a day because that’s how you studied subjects at university, this “binge learning” strategy isn’t actually very effective. Surprised?
Slowing down your learning so you can properly commit is the key to success for your long-term memory, so studying for 15 minutes per day actually is your best strategy to become conversational.
#4 Review what you’ve learned!
Reviewing what you’ve learned can feel like a real chore when compared to learning new things, but if you actually want to learn a language, rather than just memorising some sentences, you’ll also need to review what you’ve learned.
We know you can do it. So, get out there and master that language!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
