In today’s world, acquiring proficiency in a new language offers significant advantages across various domains.

However, it’s acknowledged that not everyone can master this skill swiftly.

Research validates that learning a new language is a demanding endeavor, involving both mental efforts (as the brain constructs new cognitive structures) and a significant investment of time (through consistent practice).

While some individuals possess receptive and adaptable minds, their demanding work commitments or familial responsibilities may hinder them from dedicating prolonged periods to study.

How long does it take to study a new language?

The next common question is: how long does it? Once again, the answer is straightforward—it varies from person to person.

Your level of commitment to learning the target language will directly influence the pace at which your proficiency develops.

Various research findings also indicate that acquiring the ability to speak, write, and read fluently typically takes anywhere from three months to two years.

Astonishingly, some experts assert that dedicating just 20 minutes of your daily 24 hours to language study can yield realistic results.

Indeed, everyone has the same 24 hours in a day, but how we allocate this precious resource is determined by our priorities.

If language learning holds significance for you, committing and disciplining yourself to the process should not prove to be complicated.

Acquiring language proficiency is a gradual journey, much like any other skill. Regardless of whether it’s for travel or professional purposes, the benefits far outweigh the mental effort invested.

In this post, you’ll discover a range of methods that can make language learning easier. While your personal learning style is unique and distinct, you’ll likely find these approaches adaptable and effective over time.

1. Attend a linguistic centre

Depending on your location, certain cities are equipped with linguistic institutes that offer structured language lessons. These centers provide organized classes at convenient timings and affordable rates.

Generally, linguistic programs involve placement tests before the commencement of lessons.

These assessments might comprise written evaluations or oral discussions, wherein you’re prompted to identify objects within a room. These tests serve to gauge your proficiency level before being assigned to group classes.

Consequently, you are grouped with individuals who share similar language proficiency levels.

Capitalizing on the efficiency of these classes, dedicating some additional practice at home can significantly contribute to enhancing your mastery.

2. Join a language club 

Within these educational hubs, you’ll find an amiable and supportive community that engages in language-sharing conversations.

These learning clubs offer a platform where individuals who possess limited or no proficiency in the language spoken in their host country can interact with native speakers.

While these genial discussions primarily concentrate on enhancing speaking abilities, they also facilitate social connections and interactions. Typically, these group sessions comprise 8-12 participants and extend over a few hours each week. Generally, weekends emerge as the most feasible time frame depending on the locality.

Moreover, this approach presents a practical avenue to acquaint yourself with the culture and lifestyle of others while honing your linguistic skills.

If such a club doesn’t exist in your vicinity, why not consider initiating one? It’s a proactive step toward fostering language exchange and community engagement.

3. Learn to use language applications

In the era of globalization and increased travel, many individuals are keen on acquiring a new language as an additional skill. This trend has led to the proliferation of online language learning applications catering to a multitude of languages.

Most of these language apps boast a wide range of language offerings. Examples include platforms like Cambly or conversational apps like HelloTalk.

Notably, Preply stands out as a renowned platform where I am actively engaged. It proudly hosts a diverse selection of 50 languages.

Serving as a prominent educational avenue, Preply facilitates one-on-one lessons with certified tutors via an exclusive video chat classroom embedded within its website.

With prices spanning from as little as 2 to 50 USD, you can access one-hour sessions with tutors hailing from various parts of the world.

The pivotal question now emerges: How much dedication are you prepared to invest in order to reap the enriching rewards of language proficiency? A complex query with potential answers, wouldn’t you agree?

4. Make friends online

Establishing physical friendships in the current COVID-19 landscape has become notably intricate due to restrictions on movement and gatherings.

Nevertheless, the avenue of forging friendships online through social media remains accessible.

For instance, engaging with Facebook language groups and participating in discussions while in the process of learning is a viable option.

Furthermore, creating a profile on the Global Penpals app opens doors for communication with individuals conversing in your chosen target language, spanning the globe.

5. Travel abroad

Venturing abroad has undoubtedly become more challenging than ever before, yet it remains within the realm of possibility.

Many of the existing restrictions, such as receiving the COVID vaccine, are now more achievable as a prerequisite for travel. Embarking on a journey to a different city or country remains one of the most immersive approaches to language acquisition.

Language institutes are ubiquitously scattered across countries, each offering a unique platform for linguistic education. Some institutions are exclusively dedicated to language learning, while others maintain affiliations with universities.

Typically, these programs are meticulously structured and, though they might entail a certain cost, the organized classes instill a heightened sense of focus. The assurance lies in the consistency and efficacy of the lessons.

An added advantage lies in the diverse community present within most language schools, comprising numerous foreigners.

This dynamic creates an environment ripe for forming new friendships. Moreover, these schools often coordinate events and exchange programs, facilitating interactions between students and native speakers.

Furthermore, the curriculum typically encompasses obligatory daily assignments, ensuring ongoing engagement, and limitless opportunities for practice.

6. Go to the library

Within certain cities, the availability of free language classes at libraries is a noteworthy resource.

Libraries often host a collection of language books, available both in hard copy and e-book formats, for anyone to delve into. These books encompass practical exercises accompanied by vivid examples presented through images.

This arrangement empowers your independent learning journey, enabling progression with each lesson.

For optimal guidance, it’s prudent to seek assistance from the librarian to identify books that align with your current proficiency level.

This step proves invaluable, especially when navigating the challenge of selecting appropriate materials, particularly if you’re at the beginner stage.

7. Self-study

This technique involves dedicating time to translating texts as part of your language learning strategy.

You can deliberately purchase magazines, newspapers, journals, or books written in the language you intend to master. Then, you proceed to translate each word, forming sentences with the aid of an online or physical dictionary.

While this approach does require time and might seem mentally demanding, it proves to be an effective method for enhancing your reading skills.

It’s recommended to acquire a version of the same work in your native language as well. After your translation endeavors, you can compare your translations and identify areas where mistakes were made. The version in your native language should only be read after you’ve completed the translation process in the target language.

This approach ensures that you’re learning to comprehend the target language directly, without first processing or analyzing the content in your native language.

This exercise also offers significant productivity by expanding your vocabulary; as many words have multiple meanings, studying the various definitions enhances your grasp of diverse contexts.

Consequently, you gain insight into the language’s overall structure.

To sum up, effective language learning necessitates a substantial time investment. Relocating to another country can be costly.

However, opting for premium features on language apps or dedicating just 20 minutes daily to watch language videos or read articles proves to be a more economical alternative.

I am pleased to provide online English language lessons. If you’re interested in taking lessons, kindly reach out via the contact form.

We can arrange sessions through platforms like Skype, Zoom, or other virtual apps. The hourly rate ranges from 10 to 20 USD and is open to negotiation.

Simplified English exercises can be found here for self-study.