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How to Learn Mandarin
Tackling this language can be somewhat of a challenge, especially for English speakers, as it is a language based on tones and doesn't even possess what we would describe as an alphabet.
However, it is not an insurmountable task, and many students have found that learning this language spoken by nearly one billion people, is a task worth taking on.
Some helpful hints:
1. Enroll in a class or invest in some kind of educational package. Committing yourself to learning Mandarin is an essential first step, and a good way is to choose a method of learning that suits you best. Free online lessons are a reasonable choice, but it is probably better when used alongside more formal lessons in a classroom atmosphere.
2. Allot some time every day to practice, do some exercises or go through vocabulary or grammar. Half an hour minimum is a good place to start.
3. Begin with learning the spoken form of the language rather than written. Chinese characters are complex and require a large amount of study, so if you are in a hurry to learn the language, it is a good idea on focusing on being fluent orally.
4. Use and think in Mandarin as much as possible by practicing with native speakers and incorporating the grammar and words into your mind as you go about your day.
5. Utilize study aids like flashcards, and get creative in the learning process - studying while you are on a bus, or waiting at the bank etc.
6. Focus on getting the pronunciation right, as that is what really matters in Chinese. Knowing lots of words but using the wrong pitch can send you completely in the wrong direction.
7. Practice speaking to get yourself familiar with the tones and ask for correction. Chinese people tend not to point out mistakes when they see you are a keen learner.
Take Mandarin Lessons
Sign up for a proper class at your local university, an adult education centre or at a language school. If the thought of returning to a classroom setting seems daunting or unsuitable for your schedule, check out the many places online or invest in some tapes or videos.
Listen to Mandarin
Listening to the Mandarin language as much as you can is of utmost importance if you want to get your accent right. Listen to audio language tapes and Mandarin music and radio while driving.
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