Learning a new language is a passion for a few. They learn any new language so effortlessly and so fast akin to a newborn fish learn how to swim. Such gifted persons may very soon join an elite group of linguists called polyglots. Of course, many of us can only daydream to reach that level. Nevertheless, from time to time, you come across many sufficiently good reasons to learn another language in addition to what you have already mastered.

Sometimes, the need forces you to learn a language like in the case, when your job or business takes you to a foreign country, where they use a language unfamiliar to you. At another time, the reason could be that you are thoroughly fascinated with the translated version of a good book and you want to read the original itself. Or you want to impress your foreign friends by learning and conversing in their language. A powerful yet a more down-to-earth reason could be that a thoughtfully chosen new language can open up a lot more career opportunities. Whatever may be your reason to study another language, the next stage is to plan out the learning exercise at the end of which you will have another language to add in to your CV.

The Keys That Help You In Learning A Language

• The first key to learn a language is motivation. If you already have a good reason to learn a particular language, you can convert it as your motivator-in-chief that can sustain your learning.
• Select a learning tool such as a couple of books and CDs. Or join an intensive short term course if available. Such a course can provide the base on which you can work on at your pace and with self help.
• Make a time table or plan that is viable and learn by sticking to that plan.
• All the four language skills, that is, reading, writing, speaking, and listening must be on your radar screen from the beginning.
• Do any or all of the following exercises: 1. In every language, there is a set of foundation or core words. They may be numbered around 50 to 100. Learn and master those words from your target language. From this core group, you can start building your vocabulary. 2. Make it a habit of reading and speaking aloud (but do not cross the threshold of your family’s patience!). You can even try speaking to your mirror image! 3. Watch Television and movies in your targeted language. 4. Listen to and understand language tapes.

In short, immerse yourself in your latest language possession and continue using it as and when you can so that it will not go rusted!

A Warning!

Do not try to learn two languages simultaneously. You may end up in creating an alien third language, of which the sole protagonist will be only you. Of course, if you are a born polyglot, ignore this warning!