10 Hacks to Learn A New Language Fast
Learning a new language is not only fun but a door to new opportunities and brilliant experiences. The process, as much as we would like to, is not always easy and we find obstacles along the way that impede us to progress as we want to. Although language learning and the final outcomes depends on many factors, including availability, types of lessons and your own way to process knowledge, there are many hacks that will make the journey much faster. Take notes from these 10 hacks if you want to learn a new language fast!
1. Find A Language Partner
Everything is much better with a partner! Find yourself a mate you can share your passion and progress in your chosen language. Give each other feedback and exchange thoughts.
2. Use Mnemonics
You can never have enough of repetition. Mnemonics is a great way to practice a target word as many time as you can in a different, funny way. You just need a silly or memorable concept to associate with your chosen word.
3. Learn Cognates
Cognates are the words that are very similar or almost the same in both your first language and target language. By learning as many cognates as you can, you will memorise even more words and make learning a much faster process.
4. Read More
It can be either books, newspapers, online articles or magazines, whatever suits your tastes best. This will not only help you to learn new vocabulary but also find out how information is shared in your target language and will prepare you for “real life” situations.
5. Watch Movies/TV
An obvious one, but not less important. When watching a movie, TV show or the weather report in your target language you’re training your listening skills and are getting used to the pronunciation. It’s also a great way to pick up some informal language and new vocabulary. This is one of the most fun tips on how to learn a new language fast!
6. Spaced Repetition Software
And upgrade to your average flashcards, as we know they can get really boring after a while. Most of these softwares actually allow you to measure the difficulty of a word and will teach you the correct pronunciation. Some examples are Anki, Cerego and Duolingo.
7. Talk To Yourself
Yes, you might look absolutely ridiculous, but it’s a great method. Rehearse conversations out loud, repeat new sentences over and over again. This helps you get used to the pronunciation of words and sounds that are particularly difficult for your or that simply don’t exist in your first language.
8. Listen To Music
A good way to learn to improve your listening skills and have fun. Listening to a song in your target language over an over again will help you memorise slang and other casual terms. Music in your target language is also brilliant in terms of tracking your progress, as, with the time, you will identify words and sentence that didn’t make any sense before. This is one of the simplest tips when it comes to how to learn a new language fast!
9. Skype With A Native
It can be awkward at first, especially if you are not feeling particularly confident, but, ultimately, is so worth it. Sites like Livemoca or Italki give you the option to hire online tutors that can help you speak naturally in no time. If you’re looking for a free option, you can start with Mixxer Language Exchange.
10. Spend Some Time Abroad
It’s no secret that one of the best, effective methods to learn a new language in record time is by actually living in a country where it’s widely spoken. By being in touch with native speakers every day, you are forced to get out of your comfort some and produce the language. And if you’re thinking it’s too pricey, don’t worry; options like AuPair or TEFL classes abroad will earn you money while you learn and enjoy yourself.
