My 3-Step Comprehension-Based Language Learning Routine
“They seek him here, they seek him there…” That old refrain from The Scarlet Pimpernel sums up my approach to language learning. In everything I do, I seek words and structures. I…
The Best Techniques for Each Stage of Language Learning
Language learning is a long journey, but it’s also a dynamic one. Your resources, priorities, and routines should change as you progress. Beginners, intermediates, and advanced learners all benefit from different kinds…
Reaching Conversational Level in a New Language
Conversation implies a two-way exchange of language. Therefore, reaching a conversational level implies quite a high level of comprehension of the language so that we can understand what is being said to us. That means in order to converse properly we need to prepare ourselves.
A Guide to French Pronunciation
TL;DR Summary Listen first. Let your ears adjust to French sounds before obsessing over perfect pronunciation. Focus especially on: Practice by listening, repeating, recording yourself, and gradually combining those features. Over time,…
Learn a Language in a Month: Is It Possible?
TL;DR Summary You can’t truly learn a language in one month — not in the sense of fluency. What you can do is make significant progress if you pour in massive exposure…
My Method for Learning Languages from Scratch
TL;DR Summary When you start a new language, it always feels out of reach at first. I’ve felt that every time. The best thing you can do is just listen and read,…
How to Think in Another Language (Without Forcing It)
One of the most common questions I hear is: “How do I learn to think in another language?” It’s a great question—and it touches on something deeper: our desire to achieve perfection…
Google Translate Doesn’t Work? I disagree.
I hear all the time that Google Translate doesn’t work. It’s not accurate. It’s this and that. I think Google Translate is a tremendous resource and not only for language learners. It’s not 100% and it’s better for some languages than others, but I find it extremely useful.
Learning Similar Languages: The Pros & Cons
It’s a common assumption that learning similar languages makes for an easier path to fluency. For example, a Spanish speaker learning Portuguese should have less trouble than an English speaker pursuing Japanese….
The Pareto Principle (80/20 Rule) & Language Learning
ChatGPT said: TL;DR Summary In language learning, the 80/20 rule means that 20 % of words and structures give you 80 % of your real communication power. But don’t obsess over drilling…
