Effective Tips to Learn a New Language Faster

MotivationJuly 7, 2017

With no doubt, most people are fascinated with learning a new language. There is that thrill in knowing that you can converse with other people in their own language without having to refer to a dictionary or using an interpreter. However, as fascinating as learning a language can be, it is not easy. In fact, some people have been learning English all their lives and are yet to master it.

Is it possible to overcome the difficulties and learn a new language with ease? Absolutely yes! Check out the tips below; they will help you with this.

“One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way.” ‒Frank Smith

Burn the Boats

According to Tony Robbins, “If you want to take the island, then burn your boats. With absolute commitment come the insights that create real victory.”

This simply states that if you want to be a pro in a new language, you should live abroad. This is the best method. If there are experts who can teach you a new language, they are its native speakers.

Although this is the most effective method to learn a new language, it is not always practical. Not everyone can afford to go abroad just to learn a new language. If you are among those people who cannot afford it, dedicate time for to learn the language. Listen to podcasts to get a grasp on their speaking structure and intonations. Also, use every opportunity to write the language.

Find Language Partners

If you can’t afford to fly abroad to learn the language, make use of virtual learning. There’ are masses of people out there who can help you with your endeavor. Try to find a language pal and befriend them. Both of you should help each other.

Choose Fluency, not Accuracy

When learning a new language, particularly English, people tend to pay attention to grammar and spelling. While this is a good practice, you should not be very keen on that. Most people do not care about your accuracy when you are communicating with them; they pay attention to whether you are fluent enough to engage in spontaneous conversation without experiencing mental blocks. As such, you should not fear to make mistakes; they are part and parcel of the learning process.

Use Mnemonics To Memorize New Words and Vocabulary

The hardest part of learning a new language is memorizing new words. To overcome this obstacle, make use of mnemonics for better memory. Here is a three-step approach to follow:

— The Mnemonic should be memorable. The more outrageous or unexpected, the better.
— Make it Visual. Abstract concepts are much easier to comprehend through visual images.
— The Mnemonic device should easily tie back to the meaning of the word.

Let’s take a look at an example of this concept in practice (learning Spanish).

Comer (combed hair). Comer means to eat. We can visualize eating from a plate of combed hair!

Although this is weird, it is this weirdness that will help you remember the word and its meaning easier because most probably, you have never encountered something like this before!

Learning language can be difficult, but if you make it fun, you will master it even before you realize.