How to LEARN ANY LANGUAGE on Your Own (Fast!)

Summary

This video script shares the speaker's journey of learning multiple languages after the age of 28 and offers an effective, enjoyable, and free method for language acquisition. It debunks the myth of quick language learning, emphasizing the importance of realistic expectations and consistent study. The script outlines a three-stage learning process: beginner, intermediate, and advanced, each with specific strategies such as using structured guides, the 'walking technique' for listening practice, and engaging in conversations with native speakers. The speaker also advises against using language learning apps like Duolingo for beginners and recommends typing notes for better retention and future digital communication skills.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker learned multiple languages after the age of 28 and emphasizes the importance of an effective method for language learning.
• 📚 The speaker warns against unrealistic expectations set by misleading 'quick learn' language videos on platforms like YouTube.
• ⏳ Real progress in language learning takes time, with a minimum of six months to feel comfortable speaking a new language, and up to two years for more distant languages.
• 🗣️ Fluency is defined as the ability to understand others and express oneself comfortably in virtually any context.
• 📈 The language learning process is divided into three stages: beginner, intermediate, and advanced, each with specific goals and methods.
• 📚 For beginners, the focus should be on understanding and speaking simple sentences using structured guides and resources.
• 🎧 The intermediate stage introduces the 'walking technique' which involves listening to high-quality material in the target language while walking and repeating phrases.
• 🔍 Google Translate is recommended for looking up unknown words and phrases during the walking technique, despite its imperfections.
• 💬 To reach fluency, speaking with native speakers is crucial, which can be done through paid services, language exchange apps, or in-person interactions.
• 🚫 When practicing with a conversation partner, it's important to avoid using one's native language to force the mind to adapt to the new language.
• 💪 Embracing challenges and making mistakes is encouraged as it aids in quick improvement, similar to pushing oneself in a gym workout.
• 🦖 The speaker advises to always test one's limits and seek breakthroughs in language learning, likening the process to the T-Rex from Jurassic Park.

Q & A

At what age did the speaker start learning their first second language?

The speaker started learning their first second language at the age of 28.

How many languages does the speaker currently speak fluently?

The speaker currently speaks four languages fluently: Spanish, French, Mandarin, and Arabic.

What is the speaker's opinion on the effectiveness of language learning apps like Duolingo?

The speaker believes that apps like Duolingo are too easy and too slow for effective language learning.

What does the speaker suggest as a structured guide for beginners to start learning a language?

The speaker suggests using a textbook with an audio companion, a website, or an educational YouTube series as a structured guide for beginners.

Why does the speaker recommend typing notes instead of writing them by hand?

The speaker recommends typing notes because it is faster, more efficient, and will be more useful when reaching a more advanced level of language learning.

What is the 'walking technique' the speaker introduces for intermediate language learners?

The 'walking technique' involves listening to high-quality listening material in the target language while walking around, quietly repeating phrases, and using Google Translate to look up unfamiliar words or phrases.

What is the speaker's definition of fluency in a language?

The speaker defines fluency as being able to understand others and express oneself comfortably in virtually any context.

What is the minimum time the speaker suggests for feeling comfortable speaking a new language that is relatively close to one's native language?

The speaker suggests that it will probably take at least six months to feel comfortable speaking a new language that is relatively close to one's native language.

What is the speaker's advice for finding conversation partners to practice speaking the target language?

The speaker advises using websites like italki.com to pay for native speaker time over Skype, using apps like hellotalk for language exchange, or practicing with a native speaker in person if possible.

How does the speaker relate the process of language learning to working out at the gym?

The speaker relates language learning to working out at the gym by stating that just like pushing oneself in the gym to get stronger, one must experience the challenge of conversing in an unfamiliar language to improve quickly.

What is the speaker's advice on dealing with mistakes while learning a language?

The speaker advises not to be afraid of making mistakes, as they are helpful because when someone corrects you, you are less likely to make the same mistake in the future.