How to learn a language

Learning French has probably graced the to-do lists of many starry-eyed young people, swayed by the romantic nature of the vernacular, along with the whole glamour associated with the locale.  Eventually, some of us actually get thrust in situations that force us to learn the language (such as a trip to France or a vacation in Quebec), while others faithfully take to it to fulfill their long-drawn laundry list of things to accomplish in their lives.

Be motivated. Your reasons for studying a language is usually as important as the effort you put in studying your language software.  After all, the underlying motivation is usually the fuel that moves the gears of learning.  That, right there, is our first tip: find a compelling reason to learn French, and you’ll have a better shot at success.

Start with what you absolutely need to know. This goes back to your reasons.  Are you studying French because you’re spending a holiday in France?   Will you be meeting with French clients two months from today?  Did you meet a French girl online you are looking to impress?  Whatever reason you have for studying the language, there will be some skills that are more urgent to learn than others – start with those. Whether that’s memorizing how to ask for directions (if you’re coming as a tourist), learning business-speak (for meeting with clients) or mastering “You are very beautiful” in the vernacular, that’s where you need to begin your study.

Immerse yourself. If you’re in a French-speaking locale, embrace learning and apply yourself beginning today.  In case you’re not, the Alliance Française has branches all over the world, where you can find French classes as well as meet native speakers you can practice your developing skills on.

Act French. We don’t mean taking up chainsmoking and being arrogant, but I’m sure both of those will help too.  Do things that make you feel French, watching moves for inspiration.  Similarly, try things a French local will probably do in your city, like pressing your own coffee, finding a specialty deli for lunch and anything else you can think of.