Ever since I picked up Norwegian back in 2014, I've stuck to a learning strategy that keeps getting better and seems to work well for me. Here’s how I go about it:
Ever since I picked up Norwegian back in 2014, I've stuck to a learning strategy that keeps getting better and seems to work well for me. Here’s how I go about it:
This part is usually the least fun for me, but it’s essential. I spend about 50 hours diving into the fundamentals using various methods like Duolingo, other language learning apps, beginner courses, and picking up simple phrases. It might be a bit dry, but it lays the groundwork for everything that follows.
Once I’ve mastered the basics, I shift my focus almost entirely to improving my understanding of the language. This involves a lot of reading and listening to podcasts and audiobooks, especially when I’m doing chores around the house. For reading, I rely heavily on the Google Translate extension for instant translations and to help with my pronunciation while I'm browsing the web. This phase is where the fun really begins, as I start to understand more and more.
After about 150 hours of focusing on comprehension, I begin speaking with native speakers, chating with other people and AI and booking lessons with instructors. I continue with my reading and listening, but I also start applying what I’ve learned in actual conversations. Yes, I make plenty of mistakes, but that’s all part of the learning process. Sometimes, my errors can even lead to a good laugh. The goal is to get better at expressing myself and to feel more comfortable with the language. Pronunciation is also a key focus for me during this period.
The final stage is all about refinement—speaking more accurately, sounding closer to a native speaker, and ironing out any remaining grammatical wrinkles.
What about you? What’s your approach to learning a new language?
