By Elizabeth You need to learn a new language quickly, so you can adapt to new job responsibilities or immerse smoothly in a new community. Whatever may be the reason, learning a language fast is possible. You may feel overwhelmed because learning a new language from scratch and in a rush seems impossible. You have to learn new grammar, practice speaking, and memorize vocabulary.
Simple steps to learn a new language quickly
Step 1: Set goals
Setting goals will help you measure your achievement and move forward. Guidelines to set goals
- Focus on what you are planning to learn rather than how much only the study timetable. For example, ‘I am going to learn 40 French vocabulary words associated with grocery shopping in a week’.
- Set short-term goals, which keep you motivated.
- Push yourself.
- Write the goals on the bathroom mirror or smartphone screen, so you stay committed.
Step 2: Learn ‘correct’ words
Language comprises millions of words. You don’t need to learn all to be proficient, but if are learning French then learn the top 1000 words that are used daily. Concentrating on learning these top words, you don’t waste time, but increase the volume of information you cognize quickly.
Step 3: Study smart
Learn vocabulary with flashcards, visualize the words and vocalize, use gestures/physical actions, and incorporate the word into your native language. Practice a lot!
Step 4: Use the language daily
Using the language daily will seem difficult for beginners. However, you can make it fun like study new words when you are commuting on a train or bus or waiting for a friend. Switch to passive learning when you feel tired with active learning [using flashcard].
Watch TV shows or videos in the target new language. Even if you don’t understand listen to the language sound. You will get accustomed to language cadence, identify common words, and stay motivated.
Step 5: Language practice in real-life
Meet an online language partner every week to exchange an hour of language practice.
Step 6: Learn about a culture
Gain knowledge about the country, its cultural history, religious belief, common customer, and current events. It helps to understand the meaning of the words clearly. Learning about the culture is not wasting time even if you watch videos or read blogs in your language. It enormously helps and prevents you from making offensive or embarrassing blunders.
Step 7: Test yourself
Test yourself daily to stay motivated and learn fast. Take online tests because they are available in almost every language. Take a test every month and the result shows your language level to potential universities, and employers, and even keeps you driven.
Step 8: Enjoy!
When you learn a new language in a fun way then you enjoy yourself. Play games, while learning. It helps to feel relaxed and practice the new language. Focus on learning a new language like finding interest in a favorite hobby.
For example, if you like painting then study words related to it. Watch inspirational painting videos and talk to painters who speak the target language. If you are a fan of politics then learn words connected to political issues, watch a political debate, etc. in the target language.