My Effective Methods for Learning any Language

Have you ever wondered how you can learn any language by not using traditional techniques? I’m going to share with you how I personally master any language that I want. So, I’ve learned Finnish, English and French on my own and I’m sure that I have a lot to share with you. And remember that language learning is a great opportunity to unlock your potential and to become more disciplined.

Watch movies and cartoons A LOT

This is crucial for understanding the speech. You can work with these videos in different ways.

For speaking use shadowing. This technique involves listening to the speech and then try to repeat this sentence/phrase with the same intonation and accent.

For vocabulary watch one scene with subtitles and write down any words that are new for you and learn them by using flashcards. Then turn off subtitles and watch the full scene again. Repeat it as many times as you want.

Also, you can just listen to the movie to get used to the natural speech.

Flashcards

As you read a book or watch a movie you always find words that are new to you. The most practical tool is to use flashcards. Download apps like Quizlet or Anki or just use paper flashcards. The most significant point is to use them consistently. For example, you read a paragraph in a book and find 15 new words. Write a single word or phrase on one side, and the translation on the other or if you are a more advanced learner instead write the definition in the language you are learning. Study these flashcards everyday for at least 5 days.

Rewrite books

This sounds really intense but it works insanely well. You can combine this method with reading. You basically need to rewrite by hand a whole book/story. Of course you do not need to choose thick novels, just start with a simple thin book or even rewrite an article or an essay. This technique deepens your language retention and improves grammatical intuition. By rewriting stories you study the author’s style and your fluency increases dramatically.

Rad, read, read

Pick any book that interests you in your preferred language. If you are an absolute beginner try to find not that challenging one. As you read at the first time you probably won’t understand a word but that’s ok. Just keep trying. Write down all phrases and words that are unfamiliar and learn them using flashcards.

Say what you’re doing/seing at the moment

As you are doing chores or just walking outside name out loud what you are doing or seeing in the language you are learning. For example, when you are washing your cup not just get lost in your thoughts instead say “C’est un mug” (fr).

But what about grammar?!

As you follow these advice you naturally find grammar rules and study them. At this point you can search it on the Internet or use a grammar book. Furthermore, as you immerse yourself more and more in natural spoken or written language, you begin to notice these rules.

To conclude, I just want to say that there is no right or wrong ways to learn a language. You can choose any of these tools and incorporate into your daily routine. Remember that your progress always depends on your effort and your desire. Set your intention, remember your goal and keep pushing.

Let me know if you liked my advice!