How to learn a new language in 3 months

Looking to learn a new language fast? Look no further! Language and Motivation uses an innovative and scientific teaching method which speeds up the learning of a language. In this article, they share five key principles with you.

How can you learn a new language in three months? Do you have to be talented? Not really. Is immersion enough? Not necessarily. So, what’s the answer?

As a foreigner learning Dutch, I’ve encountered many difficulties. As a language teacher, I’ve built a method based upon a mix of scientific and practical ways to make it happen. I can help you overcome the most common obstacles by sharing the following five key principles with you:

1. Make it relevant

When living in the Netherlands, you may need to complete various forms in Dutch, understand the automated answering service of your mobile company, pass the inburgeringsexamen or write a motivational letter to take the next step in your career, all from day one. So, the thing that will help you learn a language as quickly as possible is to focus on content that is relevant to your everyday life! Focus on the skills you need to develop in real life and start with what is meaningful to YOU.

2. It’s all about experimenting

A part of you may be horrified at the idea of making mistakes, especially if you are a perfectionist. But if you learn how to feel at ease, even if you say the wrong things now and then, it can be very liberating when you get it right. You’ll develop a very important skill that could also be useful for public speaking or expressing your opinion in a meeting.

Sure, there may be some obstacles occasionally, but you should always remember that language learning is not about accumulating knowledge. It’s about practising. Start mixing the words that you know and you will soon realise how many things you can express with a bit of experimentation!

3. Listen a lot!

When you start to understand what you hear, you will unconsciously acquire the language. Comprehension is the key! Try to notice how the natives speak. What are the most common expressions? How do they begin sentences? Dutch people say “kijk”, “zo”, “nu” and many other local expressions. Notice the patterns and the words that stand out and try to imitate the rhythm. Imitate the toddler who learns their mother tongue. Let yourself absorb the sounds to the maximum and you will soon be able to understand a lot, effortlessly.

4. Use your muscles

Do you remember how sore your body feels after a workout? This is what happens when you learn a new language, more or less. Neuron connections are formed and muscles are activated. So, there are three steps to becoming a linguistic Schwarzenegger: repeat, repeat and repeat! LOUDLY in front of the mirror several times before a lesson. When your face muscles hurt, you are doing it right!

When you study quietly, it's no surprise that you can't talk in real life as you have never really practised speaking. Speaking uses muscles, so get to work!

5. Mind your psychological state

Set short-term goals and try to reach them with persistence. By achieving them you can measure your success and this will keep you motivated. Don’t expect yourself to understand every single word of a text or a news broadcast and be fluent in a short time. Instead, pay attention to what you do understand. Stay curious and relaxed.

Being tolerant to ambiguity is an asset, too. There are words with multiple meanings, expressions different from what you are used to, various cultural connotations and so on. Be patient and you will learn really quickly.

If you want more information about how you can learn Dutch quickly and how the aforementioned principles are integrated into their teaching method, Language and Motivation will be glad to hear from you. Send them a message, check their Facebook or give them a call at .+31 6 1685 96 88.