Those who are bilingual possess a valuable skill. Not only does speaking a foreign language open up a host of professional opportunities, but it can represent a powerful asset when travelling abroad. The only possible issue involves the dedication that is often required from the onset. This has caused some individuals to shy away from such a challenge. However, we need to remember that the time needed to become fluent will often vary from person to person.
This nonetheless brings some rather important questions. What is the average time to appreciate the basics of a language? What have the experts found and how can you use specific techniques to your advantage? If are keen to become bilingual, the observations outlined below should never be overlooked.
A Question of Willpower
Learning any new skill requires time. This is already a well-known fact. When acquiring a second language, such an observation is even more pertinent. You might be entirely unfamiliar with fundamental concepts such as grammar and conjugation. Therefore most professionals agree that devoting a significant amount of time each day is the best way forward. In fact, some even claim that it is possible to develop a basic level of fluency in only one month if you can dedicate between eight and ten hours each day. Unfortunately, this is not realistic for most students.
As opposed to saturating your mind (and your schedule) with a new language, it could be better to create shorter sessions which enable you to focus on the appropriate times. After all, there is only so much information that a student is capable of absorbing before mental exhaustion occurs. This will naturally vary from individual to individual, so it is best to experiment with different frameworks in order to determine what is best suited for your unique needs.
Other Factors to Consider
It is important to point out that there is no universal formula for calculating the length of time needed to acquire a new language. A handful of additional factors will come into play. These include:
- The language in question
- Your personal expectations
- Your background (for instance, if you have previous experience)
- Motivation
- The tools at your disposal
This last point should be emphasized. There are many ways in which you can begin learning a new language thanks to the breadth of the Internet. From online classes and live tutors to webinars and conjugation guides, the educational process has certainly come a long way in recent times. It therefore makes a great deal of sense to take advantage of these numerous opportunities.
Perhaps the main takeaway point here is that learning a foreign language is a lengthy and challenging process. Those who are willing to put in the effort will undoubtedly be rewarded with the results. The good news is that there is always support just around the corner if you know where to look.