Becoming a polyglot might seem daunting, but with the right strategies and dedication, it can be an achievable and rewarding journey. Here are my top tips to help you on your way:
1. Learn One Language at a Time
This is perhaps the most important tip and also the subtitle of my website's logo. It is much more effective to focus on learning one language at a time. Trying to learn two or more languages simultaneously will most certainly be less effective and can sometimes lead to confusion (especially between similar languages).
2. Create a Schedule for Each Language
Once you have learned more than one language besides your native language, it becomes important to maintain a routine to keep each language fresh. Set up a daily schedule where you spend time with each of your new languages. This helps you maintain fluency and skills in all the languages you have learned.
3. Choose Languages that are Similar
When you have mastered one foreign language, it can be smart to choose a new language that has much in common with the one you already know. For example, after learning Italian as my third language, I chose French as my fourth. Since French and Italian share many similarities, this made it easier for me to learn a new language and thus achieve what I consider the minimum requirement to become a polyglot.
4. Use the 'Laddering' Technique
'Laddering' involves using one of your other languages as an intermediary when learning a new language. For example, instead of translating directly from your native language to the new language, you can go through another foreign language you know well. When I learn French, for instance, I can translate between Italian and French. This reinforces my Italian skills while I learn French.
5. Reach a Solid Level Before Moving on to the Next Language
You should not move on to a new language before you have created a solid foundation in the previous language, which I define as the B2 level. It was not until I reached the B2 level in Italian that I felt the time had come to move on to my next language, French.
6. Use the 80/20 Rule When Learning a New Language
Once you feel ready to move on to the next language, make sure to follow the 80/20 rule. This means that you will dedicate 80% of your language learning time to the new language and 20% of your time maintaining your weaker languages.
7. Stay Consistent and Patient
Learning multiple languages takes time and patience. Be consistent in your efforts and don't get discouraged by difficulties or slow progress. Celebrate small milestones and keep your focus on your long-term goals. Consistency and perseverance are key to success.
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