How to Learn a Foreign Language: A Practical Guide with Tips and Resources

by Jeff Blum

Learning a language can be a daunting process. Should you self-study? Take a course? Buy a software program? Hire a private tutor? What kinds of learning systems are available and which might be right for you? How about the myriad online resources available? And, very importantly, where should you begin? Oh, by the way, how long will all this effort take anyway? You will find the answers to these questions in this short but thorough guide to learning a foreign language.

Author Jeff Blum has taught English and studied four languages (Japanese, Spanish, Portuguese and Thai), but he still struggles just as anyone must when learning a language. Jeff did extensive research on all aspects of language learning in an effort to improve his own efforts and he has carefully curated that research into this guide to help you with your efforts as well.

This is no book of secrets or shortcuts. Learning a language is a commitment, but knowing about the various challenges, issues and approaches available will help. In the book you will find:

1. A look at the systems and techniques advocated by various language learning experts and sites
2. A consideration of personal factors in learning a language (motivation, personality, goals, etc.)
3. A discussion of the 8 language learning blocks with recommended resources for tackling each
4. An overview of the most popular language learning products on the market (Rosetta Stone, Pimsleur, etc.)
5. A comprehensive set of resources to aid you with whatever approach to study you pursue
6. An appendix listing every external link (more than 200) referenced in the main text

Whether you are young or old, beginner or advanced, studying your first foreign language or your fifth, there is something for you in this book. If you are a language teacher, this book might help you better understand what your students are up against while giving you ideas and extra resources to aid your teaching efforts.

101 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 29, 2013

About the author

Jeff Blum specializes in the curation of online information focused on the fields of business, travel, language, productivity, and technology. You can find more about him and his books at liseries.com.

Reviews

[Rudy Galvan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good

Very useful book. A lot of common sense and has plenty of resources. I recommend to any person willing to learn a new language.

[Savannah Elise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good, informative resource. Some of the links or websites no longer exist however.

[Emin Altan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book beneficial for who wants to improve learning patterns. Some tips and methods very useful.