The Pareto Principle (80/20 Rule) & Language Learning
The Pareto principle, also known as the 80/20 rule, is often cited in productivity and business circlesābut it has powerful implications for how we learn languages, too. In this post, I want…
Using ChatGPT to Learn a Language
Have you used ChatGPT for language learning? It’s an interesting idea, and I’ve found some different examples of how to use artificial intelligence to fuel your studies. I recently stumbled across a…
How Diplomats Learn Languages
When deciding how to go about learning a language, it’s logical to turn to the U.S. Foreign Service Institute (FSI). Given the institution’s ample experience in language instruction, one can’t help but…
Learning Styles vs. Learning Preferences
Over the years, Iāve heard the same question over and over again: āDo we all learn languages the same way?ā The quick answer? Yes. However, this is worth further explanation. In this…
My Top 10 Language Learning Mistakes
Language learning is a personal journey. But over time ā and across more than 20 languages ā Iāve noticed certain habits that consistently waste time or drain confidence. Confidence is critical to…
How to Become Fluent in a Language: Chunking
When we think about language learning, many of us immediately focus on vocabulary lists and grammar rules. In theory, with the right set of memorized words and structures, we should be able…
No Necesitas Dominar lo BƔsico para Aprender un Idioma
Muchos profesores insisten en la necesidad de dominar lo bĆ”sico cuando estĆ”s aprendiendo un idioma. Sin embargo, yo propongo que esta lĆ³gica no es correcta ni productiva. SĆ, puede parecer sorprendente o…
How to Read One Million Words per Year in your Target Language
Reading plays a crucial role in success, both in language learning and in general. In fact, studies have shown that individuals who read well experience greater socioeconomic success. To put it briefly,…
Effective Learning Strategies From “Making it Stick”
In the quest to master new skills or languages, one challenge stands out: making information stick. Drawing inspiration from Peter C. Brown’s Make It Stick, we’ll take a look at some effective…
Breaking Through the Intermediate Plateau
Once youāve been learning a new language for a while, you may notice that the initial, rapid progress has slowed down. Welcome to the intermediate plateauāa phase in language learning that can…
