Easy Language Learning Techniques

When researching about language learning, you’ll inevitably hear some folks refer to the language you want to study as “simple”. They’ll say things like, “Oh, that’s a simple language compared to Mandarin, you’ll pick it up in a month.” But, as anyone who studied a second language knows, you don’t pick up an entire vernacular in a month.

English, for instance, is a very “simple” language. The English alphabet only has 26 letters - certainly much less than that of many other international dialects. Yet, is it really that easy to learn compared to other languages?

According to many language experts, the difficulty of learning a particular vernacular will depend more on its relationship with your native language as opposed to any other innate challenge. If it features sentence structures and grammar constructs that resemble your native tongue, it will undoubtedly be much easier to familiarize with.

Even though you’re studying what is supposed to be a “simple” language, never expect to cruise through it. You’ll still have to go through the same learning phases - mastering the vocabulary, picking up syntax and working through nuances. Chances are, you’ll have just a difficult a time with spoken Korean as you do with spoken French, regardless of which language learning software you use.

Simply put, don’t let appearances fool you. While a language may seem simple, it doesn’t change the fact that you’ll have to work through every facet of it to integrate it into your skillset. Simple is not always easy.

There are a thousand techniques for studying a new language. Remember how many strategies people came up for their studying back in high school and college? Almost every single one of those can be applied to language learning, with potentially similar results.

Personally, I encourage students to develop study techniques based on their personal strengths. Even the best techniques can get you mediocre results if it’s not a good fit with the way you naturally learn. The following items are some things you can do to ensure a better experience of learning a new language, whether you’re working on the skillset using an audio course or a language software.

1. Acquire an ear. Even before starting your lessons, try to listen to songs or watch videos in your target language, without attempting to decipher or speak it. That will help you develop a familiarity with hearing it - an invaluable tool as you progress towards your overall skill development.

2. Think phrases. The best way to learn a language is to work on phrases, instead of individual words. That’s the reason why early language practice usually involves common phrases, instead of single-word lessons. Phrases give the words context as well as start you on the path to adopting the nuances of grammar.

3. Imagine stories around words and phrases you learn. As humans, we learn better when there’s an emotional component to anything we try to master. Stories crafted around your target language can make learning all that much easier - not to mention more fun.

4. Involve your life. If you can find a way to involve the target language into your life, the faster the learning will be. If you are living in a foreign country where the target language is the local vernacular, this becomes a default part of your everyday studying. Under different circumstances, though, you’ll have to be creative and find out how you’ll best be able to integrate it into your daily activities.