Can I master German in a year?
German is a complex yet highly systematic language. It is possible to learn German in one year, but it will take a near full-time commitment and immersion learning.
Languages have their individual family origins, and those that come from the same family will share similar characteristics. The good news is, German and English come from the same family: the Germanic family.
In short, the FSI estimated that learning German will take approximately 30 weeks (750 hours) for English speakers.
This may seem like a lot of time, but it’s a fraction compared to languages like Chinese, Japanese and Arabic, which took students up to 88 weeks to learn.
Let's see how you can help yourself accelerate your German learning!
How much time do you have to learn German?
Learning any new skill requires two major things: mileage and repetition.
Both require time and commitment over the long haul. Take two people that have the same capability, who are using the same method of learning. The person that spends 10 hours a week for a year will likely be further ahead than a person spending 1 hour a week for three months. It’s pure math.
Mileage is just as important because binge learning rarely works over the long haul. It takes time for our brain to make neural connections around the language we’re learning.
What method are you using?
Techniques and methods are often more important than time put in. A high-level way to think about it is, working smart versus working hard. You need both to succeed. But simply working hard for the sake of working hard isn’t going to get you anywhere without the right method.
Applying this to language learning, the most effective way to improve your communication skills is by speaking with native speakers. It’s not reading textbooks, playing with mobile apps, or watching movies (although this can help).
Find a German tutor or accountability partner:
Information is abundant, but willpower is not. The reason why most people never reach fluency in learning German or any other language is not lack of information. It’s due to lack of accountability and guidance.
The same concept applies to getting in shape, quitting a bad habit, and more.
Today, finding a coach or teacher to guide you through the language journey is incredibly simple. Using platforms like Rype, you can find the best teachers with a few clicks, learn anywhere you are in the world and connect with your teacher any time of the day.
How long does it take to learn German?
It depends on your situation. I know that’s the last thing you want to hear, but it’s the reason why we shared those questions at the beginning of this post.
Your results will come from the actions you put in. If you want to be an amazing communicator, then focus on speaking with native speakers. If you’re looking to improve your writing skills, focus on writing a daily journal in German.
The point is, each of us has different reasons, motivations, and timelines for learning German. The faster we can understand that there’s no perfect way to define this, the sooner you can enjoy the journey.
What Makes German Difficult To Learn?
There are many reasons the language learning process may not go as quickly as you would like.
Some common hurdles include:
- Losing motivation due to complex grammar concepts
- A lack of exposure or practice
- Working with the wrong teacher or tutor
- Using inefficient methods
Finally,
The more time you invest in daily practice, the faster you will see progress.If you’re able to travel to Germany or submerge yourself in German culture in some other way, that can help you to learn faster too.
But in the end, whether you study abroad or learn from home it’s up to you to put in the hours and spend time with the language.
There’s an amazing new way to learn German! Want to see what everyone’s talking about!
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