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Is there a ‘best way’ to learn German? A short guide to help you in your language-learning journey

Coffee Break Languages

“A laptop keyboard on a white desk next to a yellow notebook with wireless earbuds and a cup of coffee.

Starting your journey to learn German can bring up lots of questions, like: is there a single best way to learn? The truth is, the “best” method depends on what works best for you personally! 

By trying different methods and choosing a strategy that fits your lifestyle, interests, and learning style, you can find your best way to learn German. To help you find the plan that works for you, we prepared this guide in which we will share some strategies to help you on your language-learning journey.

1. Try (and use) different learning techniques 

Many people think there’s just one magical tool or resource that suits everyone, but we believe that mixing various methods for learning a language usually brings the best results. 

It’s particularly important to use a combination of resources that allows you to practise reading, listening, speaking, and writing. This way, you’ll strengthen your learning from various angles. For example, you could:

  • listen to podcasts to train your ear for the language;
  • watch German movies or TV shows with subtitles to pick up conversational phrases;
  • use structured language-learning platforms for progressive practice and vocabulary building;
  • write short diary entries in German to boost your writing skills.

This multi-tool approach makes sure you’re not just memorising words; instead, you’re actively using them in all sorts of contexts. As you continue on your learning journey, you’ll discover that this mix of techniques could be the perfect way to learn German for you!

2. Have a routine for language learning 

We believe that staying consistent is an important part of improving your skills in any language. Instead of just having an occasional study session, short daily practice sessions tend to be much more effective. 

So, why not set aside a specific time each day to practise? It could be during your morning coffee, on your commute, or before heading to bed. By weaving German into your daily routine, you’ll find it so much easier to continue making progress.

Remember to regularly revisit what you’ve learned before. We suggest you try spaced repetition, if you can. By reviewing material after longer intervals, you will strengthen your memory and keep what you’ve mastered fresh. The best way to learn German is often by creating a steady, consistent rhythm that helps you retain the language.

For some extra tips for planning your language-learning sessions, check out the video below:

3. Keep a language journal

A couple of paragraphs above, we mentioned writing in your diary in German. Another suggestion that might help you in your language-learning journey is maintaining a dedicated journal for your German studies. 

Why? Keeping track of all the new vocabulary you learn can be a motivating and exciting way to improve your language skills. By noting down fresh words, along with example sentences and your own insights on their usage, you’ll create a great personal resource. 

For some people, maintaining a ‘tracker’ of the vocabulary and grammar they’ve picked up can provide both a sense of satisfaction and an important source of motivation.

4. If you can, immerse yourself 

Immersion can make a big difference in your language-learning journey. If you are not able to visit a German-speaking country, there are other ways you can immerse yourself right at home. For example, you could change your phone’s language settings to German, follow German social media accounts, or read German news sites.

You can also join online forums or groups where members communicate in German. If you like playing video games, why not change the language settings to German while keeping the captions in your primary language? 

The more you surround yourself with the language, the more natural it will feel, and the faster you will make progress!

Find your best way to learn German

When it comes to learning German, the best approach depends on your goals, personal style, and how you like to spend your time. This little guide offers some handy strategies to help you get started, but the key is finding a routine that works for you!

If you’re considering starting your German learning journey on your own, be sure to take a look at our blog post full of helpful tips!

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