Can You Teach Yourself A Language? (Explained)

Are you thinking about learning a language on your own?

Learning a new language offers several benefits, ranging from improved memory to improved communication and cultural understanding.

So, can you teach yourself a language?

Yes, you can study a language on your own using reliable online courses that start from the beginning and teach you how to read, write, and speak the language. It will take time and patience, and mistakes will be made, which is just fine.

For most languages, there are numerous online courses available, but I would proceed with caution.

They are not only costly, but they only get you so far in terms of language learning.

Having said that, there are reputable online courses such as Coursera that provide an affordable (some courses are free) and flexible way to learn new skills.

What Is The Best Way To Learn A Language By Yourself? (Must Read)

The best way to learn a language is by learning online through MOOCs such as Coursera provides low-cost, easy-to-access online courses to help you learn a language. Watching YouTube videos and practising with native speakers can also help you improve your listening comprehension.

Below are some proven strategies to successfully teach yourself a language

Related Articles

5 Proven Strategies To Successfully Learn a Language (Must Read)

Getting out of your comfort zone and attempting new things is a great approach to improve your language skills.

Learning can be difficult, especially if there is too much information available.

It’s also possible that you’ll find seeking word pronunciations tedious.

This isn’t going to work in the long run. You might even give up, discouraged and frustrated.

However, there are various methods for learning a foreign language on your own.

Here is my 5 step program for learning a new language.

It’s my method and it works really well for me.

Choose A Course or Book To Learn From

Some people like to learn by reading and practising from books, while others prefer to take online classes.

I suggest Coursera, which provides affordable and flexible online courses in a variety of subjects, such as Spanish, Korean, and Japanese.

Coursera courses are frequently free and provide certifications, and they are offered by respectable institutions like St Petersburg University and Peking University.

Learn More

Start With The Basics

When learning something new from the ground up, it’s critical to understand the basics.

Your target language’s grammatical rules are likely to differ greatly from those of your native tongue.

Spending some time learning the alphabet and learning how sentences are organised, such as word order, parts of speech, and subject-verb agreement will benefit you in the long run.

Flashcards

One of the most effective ways to learn vocabulary is through repetition.

Make a set of flashcards with your vocabulary words and go over them every day.

Place flashcards throughout your home. Memorize them by posting them on your refrigerator, bed, or clothes etc.

Make a list of the translations and memorise them.

Also, look to learn one phrase per day.

Rather than attempting to recall the greatest number of words and phrases in the shortest amount of time, do the opposite.

Make a daily commitment to one sentence.

  • “What time is it”
  • “What did you have for dinner”
  • “Where is the train station”

Memorizing and repeating this sentence makes it easier to talk in that pattern.

You also know that the sentence pattern you’re speaking is grammatically correct.

You will speak more fluently and spontaneously once you have learned enough sentence patterns.

Youtube

Viewing videos provide context for the language, which aids comprehension.

By turning on subtitles, you can watch your favourite stuff on Youtube.

Watch videos in the target language for a few weeks, switching between watching them with English subtitles and watching them with target language subtitles.

If you prefer to learn through reading, choose a book you’ve already read in English and reread it in the target language if desired.

You’ll have to put in some effort and translating at first, but if you find something you enjoy reading about, you’ll be more motivated.

Meet-up Groups

Look for language meeting groups in your area.

You’ll be able to meet other students who share your interests, as well as native speakers.

While practising speaking, which is the most difficult aspect, you can discuss your experiences and challenges with other learners.

And, here’s the fun part, you might meet someone significant in your life unexpectedly as well.

Final Thoughts

It is possible to self-learn a language, and it is now easier than it has ever been because of technological advancements.

Yes, anyone can learn any subject or language on their own, and today, if you have a decent internet connection, there are numerous platforms such as YouTube and educational websites such as Coursera where you can learn just about any language.

Related Articles

Affiliate Disclaimer

Workveteran is reader-supported. This post may contain Affiliate Links, meaning we may earn an affiliate commission if you decide to purchase through a link, at no cost to you.