Learning any language thoroughly can be really difficult, but learning the basics of a language to become at least passably fluent can be done quickly. Programs like Rocket Language learning or Rosetta Stone have proven this, and help to speed up the process. Whether it's to prepare for studying overseas, tracking down family roots, or just enjoying your first true Oktoberfest, read on to learn how to learn the German language fast!

The first step to learning German quickly is to immerse yourself in the language as much as possible. If you're a student already overseas, this part is easier. Look for children's books, kid's TV programs like Sesame Street in German, and try to find someone who speaks fluent German who can tutor you. Listen to German music. Really immerse yourself as much as possible in the language you're trying to learn.

Learn basic phrases in German that you actually want to learn and would use. Every language book has basic phrases, but you're not going to ask for three apples from the tree by the dog. However, you might ask where the bathroom is, order a beer, or ask that beautiful co-ed out to a movie on Friday night. If you concentrate on basic phrases you're more likely to use, you're more likely to retain that information.

If you can afford it, buy one of the major quick language learning programs. Rosetta Stone is probably the best known, though these often cost several hundred dollars. Rocket language learning is another popular alternative, and is usually priced much lower. Programs like these are designed to accelerate the language learning process and are highly recommended if time is an issue.

Try to associate visual cues with the words. Being able to see, hear, and say German phrases will help you learn German more quickly than if you only hear and repeat the words. The more senses you use, the better.

Commit. Make studying German a daily practice and really dive into it each day. Have a little bit of review each day, but also have new material to keep the learning curve fresh. Keep at it with dedication, and you'll be surprised how quickly you can begin to pick up basic conversational German.