Are you a German learner who is struggling to find effective ways to master the language? Learn German online and find wonderful ways to study easily.
Learn German Online
If so, you’re not alone. Many learners struggle with learning German because it’s an extremely complex and challenging language for native English speakers.
Although there are some similarities between German and English, such as having three genders for nouns (i.e., masculine, feminine, and neuter) and conjugating verbs differently based on who or what you’re speaking about, the two languages are very different.
Why are you learning German anyway?
Even with the difficulties that come from learning German, there are several ways you can improve your experience while also accelerating your progress with this beautiful but difficult language. Here are five wonderful ways to improve your learning experience with German online:
1. Use an effective course or program
As you begin your journey to learn German, one of the very first things you should do is find a high-quality course or program that fits your current learning style and needs. There are many options out there, ranging in topics such as grammar, vocabulary, listening skills, and reading.
It’s best to start with online courses, audio courses, or textbooks, as they allow you to go at your own pace and are very convenient. Make sure to choose a course that is highly rated and is designed for your level. Many learners who start out with a poor-quality course tend to give up because they don’t see any value in the material.
This can have a serious impact on your motivation and morale and can lead to quitting altogether. If you find a high-quality course, you’re more likely to stay committed and motivated, which creates an environment that is conducive to accelerating your progress and truly benefiting from the content.
2. Join a community of German learners
One of the best things you can do is join a community of German learners, whether online or in person. Being part of a community of learners who are going through the same thing as you, facing the same challenges, and succeeding and failing at the same things will help you keep going even when you’re feeling frustrated.
It’s very common for learners to have low points in their language journey, so having a community of learners who each have your back and are willing to help you get through those lows is extremely beneficial. With a community, you’ll have people to share your journey with, learn from, and even teach as you advance through your German language journey.
Additionally, being part of a community will help you stay accountable. If you don’t tell anyone about your goals and progress, then you’re less likely to actually follow through and see results.
But if you’re part of a community, you’ll be held accountable and have the encouragement to stay on track, even if you’re having a bad day.
Accountability can be a very positive thing!
3. Dedicate time to learning vocabulary
A lot of people learn vocabulary as they go along, but this is not an effective way to truly learn new words and phrases. Instead, you should dedicate specific time to reviewing vocabulary. There are many ways to do this, such as through flashcards, word searches, and word games.
A great way to review your vocabulary is to use an SRS (spaced repetition system) program like Anki. Anki is a free program that allows you to import words and phrases into flashcards and then rate their difficulty.
It then uses a computer algorithm to determine when you need to review each card again, so you can truly master your vocabulary.
It’s important to review your vocabulary regularly to ensure that you’re truly mastering the words and phrases. If you don’t review your vocabulary, you’re at risk of forgetting it over time, which is why using an SRS program is such an effective and valuable way to truly learn your vocabulary.
4. Learn how to conjugate verbs effectively
While there are many challenges that come with learning German, one of the biggest challenges learners face is learning how to conjugate verbs. In the German language, verbs are conjugated based on who you’re speaking about (i.e., first person, second person, third person) and what tense you’re in (i.e., past, present, future).
There are several ways to learn how to conjugate verbs effectively. One way is to use a verb conjugation app like iTalki’s verb conjugation app. Another way is to make it a game by playing some of the many online games that focus on helping you learn verb conjugations.
Or you can simply learn the most common verbs and then make flashcards to help you remember them. No matter which method you choose, it’s important that you learn how to conjugate verbs effectively.
If you don’t, you’ll struggle greatly with communicating effectively in German and are likely to make many mistakes that are embarrassing and make you look like a beginner.
5. Listening comprehension in German
There are many ways to learn a new language. One of the best is by listening. Studies have shown that listening to native speakers can help you learn faster and retain information better than simply reading out loud in another language.
To increase your listening comprehension, try using a translation app like Google Translate or Voice Translate on your phone. Another great way to improve your listening comprehension is by using a podcast app on your phone. Podcasts are easy to listen to while you’re exercising, commuting, or even doing housework.
The key is finding interesting and informative podcasts so you don’t get bored and lose interest. There are also podcasts that teach foreign languages. These can be a great way to learn a new language while having fun at the same time!
Learn the German language more online
Whether you’re just starting out and want to learn German online for enjoyment or a professional who needs to improve on reading and writing, there is something for everyone in the extensive array of online German learning resources.
