Frequently asked questions

1. Which language should I start with if I'm a native English speaker?

Answer: The easiest languages for English speakers are typically:

  • Spanish or French (closest to English, shared vocabulary)

  • German (moderate difficulty, systematic grammar)

  • Polish (challenging but rewarding, complex grammar)

  • Arabic (most challenging, different script and structure)

Start with Spanish or French if you want quick progress, German for systematic learning, Polish for a Slavic language challenge, or Arabic if you're motivated by the script and culture.

2. How long does it take to become fluent in these languages?

Answer: According to the US Foreign Service Institute:

  • Spanish: 600-750 hours (24-30 weeks intensive)

  • French: 600-750 hours (24-30 weeks intensive)

  • German: 750-900 hours (30-36 weeks intensive)

  • Polish: 1100+ hours (44 weeks intensive)

  • Arabic: 2200+ hours (88 weeks intensive)

For casual learners studying 1 hour daily:

  • Spanish/French: 1.5-2 years for conversational level

  • German: 2-2.5 years

  • Polish: 3-4 years

  • Arabic: 5-6 years

3. Can I learn multiple languages at the same time?

Answer: Yes, but with cautions:

  • Avoid similar languages initially (e.g., Spanish and French together can cause confusion)

  • Good combinations: German + Spanish, Arabic + French, Polish + Spanish

  • Dedicate different times/contexts to each language

  • Ensure different skill levels (one advanced, one beginner)

  • Maximum recommendation: 2 languages simultaneously for most learners

4. What are the best free resources for each language?

Answer:

  • German: Nicos Weg (DW), Memrise, r/German subreddit

  • Spanish: SpanishDict, Conjuguemos, News in Slow Spanish

  • Arabic: Madinah Arabic, ArabicPod101, Al Jazeera Learning

  • French: TV5Monde, RFI Savoirs, Français Authentique

  • Polish: PolishPod101, "Polski Daily" podcast, Clozemaster

  • All languages: Duolingo, Anki flashcards, HelloTalk, YouTube

5. Should I focus on grammar or conversation first?

Answer: Use the 80/20 approach:

  • 20% grammar basics (essential structures)

  • 80% practical application (speaking, listening, reading)

Start with conversational phrases and high-frequency words, then gradually incorporate grammar as you progress. Arabic is an exception where script mastery should come first.

6. How do I maintain motivation when progress feels slow?

Answer:

  • Set micro-goals: Learn 5 new words daily rather than "become fluent"

  • Track progress: Keep a learning journal or use apps with streaks

  • Connect with culture: Watch movies, listen to music, cook traditional food

  • Find accountability: Join online communities or find a study partner

  • Celebrate small wins: Successfully ordering coffee counts as victory!

  • Schedule regular breaks: Prevent burnout with rest days

7. What's the most effective daily study routine?

Answer: The "Power Hour" method:

  • 15 minutes: Review previous material (spaced repetition)

  • 20 minutes: New content learning (grammar/vocabulary)

  • 15 minutes: Active practice (speaking/writing)

  • 10 minutes: Passive exposure (podcast/video)

For busy schedules, even 15-20 minutes daily is better than weekend cramming.

8. How important is pronunciation at the beginning?

Answer:

  • Very important for: Arabic (phonemes don't exist in English), French (nasal sounds), Polish (consonant clusters)

  • Moderately important for: German (umlauts), Spanish (rolled R)

  • Focus early on: Sounds that don't exist in English

  • Use: IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet), native speaker recordings, speech recognition apps

Poor pronunciation habits are harder to fix later, so invest time early.

9. When should I start speaking with native speakers?

Answer: Earlier than you think!

  • Week 1-2: Practice reading aloud

  • Month 1: Simple exchanges online (text chat)

  • Month 2-3: Voice messages or prepared conversations

  • Month 3-6: Live conversations with patient partners

Use platforms like HelloTalk, Tandem, or italki. Native speakers appreciate effort over perfection.

10. What are the biggest mistakes beginners make?

Answer:

  1. Over-relying on translation instead of thinking in the target language

  2. Perfectionism preventing actual communication attempts

  3. Ignoring listening skills while focusing only on reading

  4. Not learning phrases in context

  5. Studying irregularly (better to do 10 minutes daily than 2 hours weekly)

  6. Avoiding difficult aspects (e.g., Arabic script, Polish cases)

  7. Not setting realistic timelines