How to Successfully Learn a New Language Online

Learning a new language can seem quite scary. Because I already speak French (my first language) and English, I am currently challenging myself by learning Spanish. At 29 years of age, a new language does not have much space in my already busy brain. One thing I find that works for me is setting aside a dedicated 30 minutes per day to practice. For me, it's the first half of my lunch hour. During that period, I focus on my Spanish exercises with no distraction. It hasn't been very long since I started, but I can already see a big improvement. Studies show that 30 minutes is about the maximum time most people can focus on learning tasks without taking a break, so I'm on the right track. One way to do this is by scheduling it (I use Google calendar to remind me).

Know your motivation and stick with it. Why are you learning French? For many of our Learn French with Alexa community members, reaching a B2 level can change their lives. Many want to learn French to move to Canada or France. For others, new language skills represent a promotion at work, filled with travel opportunities and more. Others want to get to a basic conversational level to holiday in France like a pro. Whatever your motivation, use it to reach your goal. It's very crucial to commit, so make sure to really know why you are doing it before deciding to start.

Try learning the way children do. When kids learn, they are more willing to make mistakes and are less self-conscious. As kids, we were expected to make mistakes. The older we get, those same mistakes become taboo. When it comes to language learning, make as many mistakes as you can. Let go of your inhibitions. Practice out loud, make the ridiculous "r" sounds as many times as it takes to get it right. If it helps, when you practice your French, do so alone in a room where no one can hear you. Another tip is to practice in front of a mirror, that will help you build the confidence you need for when you do have to speak it in public.