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The Best Ways to Learn Spanish: 6 Science-Backed Study Hacks [Infographic]

May 30, 2023

The Best Ways to Learn Spanish: 6 Science-Backed Study Hacks [Infographic]

Do you want to learn how to read, write and speak in Spanish? Learning a new language can seem daunting: the rules of grammar, verb conjugation, not just learning words but understanding their contextual meaning. 

But don’t let that overwhelm you! With a few strategic and science-backed study hacks, you’ll soon be on your way to fluency.  

In this blog post we’ve included an Infographic outlining 6 proven study methods for mastering Spanish. Read on to find out more about taking your language skills to the next level!

What is the Easiest Way to Learn the Spanish Language?

Learning a foreign language such as Spanish can seem daunting, but there are several strategies to help make the process easier:

  • One of the best ways to learn is to immerse yourself in Spanish-speaking cultures through visiting locales where the language is heavily used, or by exploring place like Spain and Mexico.
  • Another great way to learn Spanish is to listen and watch media with Spanish dialogue or lyrics like movies, soap operas, or telenovelas—you can also get help from music videos and audio books.
  • Most importantly, practice makes perfect; the more effort you put into your studies the quicker you’ll pick up new words and start forming sentences in no time!

What is the best way to learn Spanish? In addition to the tips above, taking Spanish lessons is a great way to expand your horizons and learn Spanish quickly. You’ll learn everything you need to know about this romance language, like what you see in the video below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9hRdpZXgLI 

What’s the Best Way to Learn Spanish? 

There’s no doubt that learning a second language can be a difficult task. Although learning Spanish as a native English speaker may be easier than picking up a language like Chinese, it takes time and practice to get from your first ¡hola! to full-blown fluency.

If you’re looking to accelerate your progress, it’s worthwhile to do some research into the best ways to learn Spanish. This means learning how to study smarter, not just harder. With the right study habits and a drive to succeed, you can reach your Spanish goals in the most efficient way possible.

To help, we’ve rounded up six study hacks that will prep your mind and body for learning Spanish more easily. Before we dive in, check out this helpful video on the fastest ways to learn Spanish, from TakeLesson’s expert Spanish tutor Danae Riley!

Now that Danae has got you on the right track, you can apply the following six study hacks to enhance your Spanish learning experience:

1) Write your notes by hand.

You’ve probably heard this popular tip before, but it’s one of the best ways to learn Spanish vocabulary that exists. Studies suggest that you are more likely to recall information if you write it down by hand because your brain has to focus on writing out each letter. So, ditch your keyboard or your iPad, and resort to an old-fashioned pen and paper. If you feel like you have to type your notes in order to keep up with your teacher, rewrite them by hand when you get home to help you study and retain the information.

2) Exercise.

This might sound like a strange tip, but a 2009 study showed that physical activity can improve brain function, learning, and memory. Try combining your studies with exercise by listening to a Spanish language podcast while at the gym. Instead of watching TV during a study break, take a jog around the block. Leading an active lifestyle will help you recall Spanish better.

3) Chew gum while you study.

A 2013 study showed that those who chewed gum while they learned had higher accuracy rates when recalling information than those who did not chew gum. There is also a potential link between level of focus and gum chewing. That’s because giving the jaws a workout can help keep the brain alert. So, the next time you’re struggling to concentrate, pop in some minty-fresh gum, and get back to studying!

4) Immerse yourself in the language.

A 2012 study shows that students who immerse themselves in a language instead of only learning in a classroom setting are more likely to absorb it. Furthermore, the study suggests that immersion can help the brain process the language like a native speaker. While not everyone can pack up and move to a Spanish-speaking country, there are ways to simulate immersion around your home. Try speaking and writing in Spanish whenever possible, along with listening to music and radio shows in the language.  This will help you bring a little Spanish immersion into your life.

5) Say it aloud.

This study shows that people who say information out loud are more likely to remember it than people who read everything silently. The study also suggests that our brain likes to remember oddball information, especially when it’s said aloud. Speaking out loud is not only necessary for sharpening your pronunciation, but it’s also one of the fastest ways to learn Spanish words and phrases.

6) Don’t stress; get some sleep.

Even though cramming for an exam or your trip to Spain might seem like a good idea, studies have shown that sleep is more beneficial than extra hours of studying. Getting a sufficient amount of sleep in the days leading up to your exam or trip will help you to recall information better. Your brain needs time to process the information that you take on throughout the day. Eventually, you may even start dreaming in Spanish!

Here’s a recap of all these Spanish study hacks in one handy infographic:

6 Science-Backed Study Hacks for Learning Spanish

What is the Best Way to Learn Spanish for Free?

Learning Spanish for free can be a great way to expand your language knowledge and even open up more opportunities in life. There are many different approaches you can take, ranging from online courses and programs to self-study methods. 

To get the most out of learning Spanish, it is important to choose the right approach for you. Some people prefer online classes that offer guidance, while others may want to design their own study plan with materials they can find online or borrow from libraries. Many websites provide useful resources such as audio recordings of words, practice exercises, and grammar information. 

Additionally, watching films or television shows in Spanish is a great way to practice your skills and pick up new vocabulary naturally. By combining different sources and approaches, anyone can learn Spanish for free!

What is the Best Way to Learn Spanish Online?

So what’s the best way to learn Spanish online? Without a doubt, the best way to learn Spanish online is with an immersive learning experience. With the right program, you can move at your own pace and quickly become conversational in Spanish. 

Programs like Rosetta Stone and those offered by TakeLessons offer interactive lessons on grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary, and culture to help users get a comprehensive understanding of the language.

By having access to these lessons whenever and wherever you want, you’ll be gaining more than just knowledge; you’ll also be getting valuable cultural insight that will take your Spanish beyond the textbook definition of “fluency.” 

Additionally, by utilizing apps that integrate speech recognition technology, learners can practice speaking the language without ever having to leave their homes – perfect for those who want to learn on their own terms.

What is the Best Way to Learn Spanish as an Adult?

Learning Spanish as an adult can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. The best way to learn the language is to immerse yourself in it. 

Find ways to communicate with native speakers, such as taking classes or talking with friends and family who already know the language. 

Making a concerted effort to use the language on a daily basis will help you retain the new words and phrases you will learn from these sources. 

Supplementing your conversational Spanish by reading Spanish books and newspapers or browsing online in Spanish forums can help reinforce your comprehension of the language as well. Learning Spanish can open up many opportunities, so find ways to enjoy the learning experience and have fun with it!

How Long Does it Realistically Take to Learn Spanish?

It’s important to realize that it takes a significant amount of dedication and hard work to master any language, but with a combination of regular practice, exposure, and focus you can make real progress. 

Depending on individual aptitude, most learners can expect to start speaking basic Spanish after approximately 6-9 months of consistent effort; however, some may find that it takes longer due to the nuances of the language. 

Furthermore, the length of time required for proficiency can extend significantly beyond 9 months depending on one’s specific goals such as writing fluently or understanding more complicated concepts. 

All in all, dedication to learning Spanish is often accompanied by persistent efforts over an extended period of time; however, with regular practice and a well-structured program, you can feel confident that you will successfully reach your desired proficiency level.

What is the Best Way to Learn Spanish On Your Own?

So, what’s the best way to learn Spanish? It’s ultimately up to your own learning style and language goals. Working with a qualified Spanish tutor will help you build up your language skills in the most efficient way possible. They’ll present you with a customized study plan that considers your own unique approach to the language. Then, you can apply these hacks to maximize your study time!

Ready to start your Spanish learning journey? Online classes make it possible to connect with the perfect Spanish tutor from anywhere in the world. Search for a tutor today!

Bonus: Learn about the budget-friendly options for learning Spanish!
author

Suzy S.