It's easy to go overboard and buy lots of books and CDs when trying to learn a new language. You think "the more sources I have the better," right? WRONG! You only need 3 things. If they are of good quality and written well, that is all you need! So, if you follow the tips below, you can stop wasting time and money and finally learn that language you always wanted! Excluding pens, paper, and things of that nature, there are 3 items you must have when trying to learn a new language:

1. A main source of information -

Whether this be a workbook, textbook or a computer or audio program, there must be a some sort of a main source of information to follow. Also, it must be presented in the correct order too, because a language builds on what you have already learned. If you learn the past tense before the present tense, that is going to really mix you up later on. The information should start out easy with pronunciation, the alphabet, basic grammar, verbs in the present tense, then progress from there.

2. A good dictionary -

Please, I beg of you, do not rely on any dictionary in the back of textbooks or booklets. It won't be adequate enough for your needs. I can promise you that words and phrases will be missing. You do not need a 2,000 page, 50 pound dictionary or spend $100 either. I recommend a moderately priced paperback dictionary around $6.99 - $8.99. That should have everything you need.

3. A verb conjugation book -

This is a must once you start learning verbs and verb tenses. It's so easy to get all the verbs mixed up. It is a known fact, that by the time you finish Spanish II, you will have learned 12 tenses. How do you keep track of all of them? A book is the only way, unless you can memorize it all. Even then, it's hard to keep it all straight. I like the 501 Verb series, but there are many other just as good verb conjugation books.

An optional helpful item is an electronic language translator. The only problem is that they are mostly geared for travelers and therefore, only have travel phrases. If you can find one that is a dictionary type or a basic translator, that would be better.

So, with 3 simple items, you can get started learning any language. How simple!! So, c'mon and get started today!

Nancy Sorkowitz is a life long learner of foreign languages (self-taught and educated). Nancy is a tutor of Spanish, French and Italian for 9 years in NYC. She also has an online store at http://www.ncslearnalanguageresources.com.

[Edited by Administrator (admin) Wed, 06 Jul 2011, 05:43 PM]