Discuss the required insights of a language learner, not only as a cognitive entity, but as a social being functioning in a multilingual environment. 

100 language learning insights

Here, all in one place, are one hundred of the best, brief, language learning insights I’ve come across in years of language learning and years of learning about learning languages.  This is celebratory piece to mark a mini milestone: the one hundredth post published here on Howtogetfluent.com.

I hope you’ll enjoy my selection. Of course, it could only ever be incomplete and maybe you’d like to add a few insights of your own in the comments at the bottom  .

Mindset and motivation

1.  You’ve got fluent in one language, so of course you can get fluent in another.

2.  While some people are more talented at languages than others, we all have a unique mix of talents we can bring to the language learning party.  We may not be the best, but we’re all good enough!

3.  It’s not really easier for children to learn languages (except maybe the pronunciation).  They just have different strengths and weaknesses, fewer inhibitions and eons of time. Older adults may not have such good memories, but have more context and experience.  So, no, you’re never too old to learn a language.

4.  Like the kids, you should not be afraid to make mistakes.

5.  It helps to be really clear as to why you are learning the language.

6.  Initial enthusiasm may wear off, though, even when your reasons are strong.  You won’t get far without making a habit of effective study and practice.

7.  Developing a social dimension in which to use your language will force you to speak…and could help make it all feel more worthwhile.

8.  Aiming for fluency is like chasing the horizon…When you do that, of course you certainly move forward….

9.  …but it helps to set interim goals: specific, meaningful, action-oriented, realistic and time-bound.

10.  Exams can be very useful in as a spur to drive you forward.

11.  Others can hold you accountable too, if you ask them to.

12.  You can get a great start – even get fluent – without living in the country….Being away from home may even be a massive distraction.

Methods

13.  There’s no one magic method….but some methods are better than others….

14.  Still, consistent use of somewhat sub-optimal methods is better than flitting from one method to another or not doing anything at all.

15.  Because language learning is all about making a habit out of practising the four skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking….

16.  All those skills are intertwined and if you want to excel, do all of them as much as you can (I usually fall short on the writing).

17.   Make sure you get constructive, corrective feedback.

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