8 Qualities of a Good Language Learner | Language Tips

What do the most successful language learners have in common? Find out eight common traits in this post from Spanish tutor Jason N…

When you first start learning a new language, it might seem frustrating. There are tons of new vocabulary words and new grammar rules to learn, and listening to native speakers may make your head spin. Sometimes you even have to learn a whole new alphabet! Mastering a new language means dedicating yourself to practicing and studying each and every day. 

But don’t give up! You successfully learned one language well so far (or you wouldn’t be understanding this post!), so you can clearly learn another. And the fact that you’re even reading this article shows me another important factor — that you’re motivated to learn!

No matter how eager you are to learn a new language or how hard you try, you certainly won’t become fluent in a day. It takes time and practice. That said, some people seem to learn languages faster than others. So what gives? More often than not, it’s because they possess certain traits and characteristics that help them along the way. They might read the same textbooks and take the same language lessons as you, but some students simply have the qualities of a good language learner. 

I’ve been tutoring for a while now, so I started thinking about what these traits are, and that’s why I’ve provided a guide on how to be a more successful language learner. The following are characteristics that you likely already possess but simply need to fine-tune and grow. 

1) Observant

If you’re wondering how to succeed in learning a foreign language, it’s time to open up your eyes and ears. The most effective language learners spend time and energy outside of classes and lessons trying to understand the language’s clues, patterns, structure, and organization. Pay attention to the pronunciation of sounds and look into grammar rules and exceptions. What do you notice? Along with this, you should keep notes to monitor what you’ve learned, and come prepared with questions for your tutor, teacher, or professor.

Learning Tip: As you learn, immediately apply new words and grammatical concepts/rules by writing or speaking. Did you learn a new phrase or vocabulary word? Jot it down and practice using it in a sentence. This is one quick way to begin stringing together new words, phrases, and concepts. You’ll likely already be doing this with your tutor, but continue practicing in between your lessons, too. Pay attention to contextual clues as you speak with others, and write down any patterns you notice.

2) Pragmatic

Being pragmatic is the next characteristic in my guide on how to be a more successful language learner. My best students know what works and what doesn’t for their personal learning style. This includes an active approach in tailoring your personal preferences and needs in all learning situations, so you don’t waste time on what is ineffective for you. Tap into the ways that you learn best. Do you benefit from visual cues? Perhaps it would help to doodle a picture that represents your vocabulary words to aid in your memorization. Or do you prefer to hear it spoken out loud? Maybe it would help for you to record your online lessons to playback later. Once you understand what makes you tick, it’ll be easier to adapt and more quickly learn a language. 

This characteristic also involves thoughtfulness, including picking up on the objective of a given in-class exercise and why it’s important to your overall language learning. A big part of learning a new language requires building on what you’ve already learned and making connections to the larger themes. 

Learning Tip: Figure out your learning style, and make sure your tutor knows it too.

3) Dedicated

Dedication is another important quality of a good language learner. These learners aren’t afraid of a challenge! Super-learners believe they can always learn something, even if they dislike or struggle with a given concept, topic, or rule. They steadfastly seek learning environments that facilitate their unique needs and goals.

They also know there are no shortcuts when it comes to learning! Efficient language learning requires a combination of a great teacher or tutor, the right learning resources, and a commitment to practicing on your own time. With this mindset, these learners understand there is always room to learn and practice the language in nearly any situation, whether they are traveling in a different country or ordering food at a local restaurant. 

Learning Tip: Supplement your lessons with other ways of interacting and learning. This could include taking an online group class, playing a language-learning game, or listening to a podcast during your commute to and from work or school.

4) Fearless

My best students frequently seek out opportunities to chat with native or experienced speakers, with the aim of communicating and understanding before accurateness. Down the road, while temporarily prioritizing communication, super-learners know they will learn to balance communicating with accuracy as they improve. The only way to improve is by practicing, making mistakes, and receiving feedback along the way. 

Learning Tip: Don’t be afraid to leave your comfort zone! Seek out opportunities to chat with others, whether they’re native speakers or another student learning the same language. You can even level the playing field by finding a native speaker who is equally interested in learning your native language. Take turns speaking in your respective languages, so you both have an opportunity to learn from one another. If you get nervous, check out these conversation tips. You just might be surprised at how willing native speakers are to help and have a conversation with you. 

5) Patient and centered

When it comes to figuring out how to be a more successful language learner, patience is key. Research has shown the best way to learn is with a relaxed, yet alert inner-posture. In my five years of experience as a tutor and 12 years as a Spanish language learner, I have seen that one’s attitude, including patience with the process, can be more important than your initial skill level and intelligence. Whatever you do, don’t rush the process. 

Learning Tip: If you’re feeling frustrated with your progress, take a step back. Learning a new language takes time, and some concepts and rules may seem easier than others. Let your tutor know if you’re struggling with something, and spend extra time on that.

6) Realistic

Most languages are highly complex. Efficient language learners are realistic, systematic, and goal-oriented in their approach. This involves an active long-term commitment, effective organization, and knowing that it’s unrealistic to aim for perfection. Realizing that you won’t become fluent overnight should not deter you from the challenge. 

Learning Tip: Think about your short- and long-term goals, and write them down. Make sure they’re realistic and reachable! Maybe you want to master present tense conjugations within the next three months, or perhaps you strive to know every vocabulary word involving food by the end of the year. These small goals will help you realize your progress along the way. If you have a busy schedule, you may not have a ton of time to set aside — and that’s OK. Just make sure you’re noticing consistent progress, no matter how small.

7) Personable

As trait #4 mentioned, consistent contact with experienced and/or native speakers is key. Super-learners have the social support needed to continually practice the language, in all types of settings.

Learning Tip: Get as much practice as you can speaking in your target language! Chat with other students online, find a language exchange partner, or teach a family member what you’ve learned so far.

8) Worldly

Lastly and most importantly, efficient language learning requires embracing the culture of the new language! They know that a language is much more than vocab and grammar; it’s an entirely new way of conceptualizing, engaging with communities, and seeing the world. 

Learning Tip: If you have the resources, consider traveling to a country where the language is spoken. Sample some authentic cuisine, embrace their history and culture, and most importantly, interact with the locals. That said, if you don’t have the means to take a big trip, look for opportunities within your own community. Immersion is proven to help you learn faster, as you’ll get real-life practice.

Ready to begin the journey to mastering your targeted language? Follow my guide on how to succeed in learning a foreign language, and you will be well on your way!