Audio books have always been popular, but now you can use them to learn Spanish. There are some audio books (and magazines) that come in Spanish with word-for-word transcripts of the dialogue in English. The audio books coupled with the transcripts can be a powerful learning tool.
2. Bilingual Signs
Do you live in an area where English and Spanish are used regularly? If you do, you'll probably notice bilingual signs. These signs can get you acquainted with key Spanish phrases pretty quickly. Don't underestimate this method; it's simple, but effective.
3. Cartoon Books
If you can get your hands on Spanish cartoon books, you'll get a graphic representation of Spanish language. They're very much like picture books. Although not designed as a teaching aid, they can function that way. Children learn this way and so can adults.
4. College course
Nothing beats sitting in a classroom learning Spanish. Of course, this can be very boring, but it's a time-tested and proven way to learn Spanish. The only drawbacks are the expense (some college Spanish courses can be quite expensive) and depending on your learning ability...it may not be very fast.
5. Complete Immersion
Immerse yourself in the Spanish culture and language. Live in a Spanish-speaking environment and speak the language 24/7. This is a very quick way to pick up the language if you have the aptitude. But sometimes it can be a case of sink or swim. Be sure you DO have the aptitude before you try this.
6. English Subtitles
Get a Spanish movie with English subtitles, put it on, watch and learn. You can watch the movie and learn Spanish at the same time. Oh, it won't make you an expert, but you can learn some great phrases this way. Especially if you're quick with the rewind button.
7. Practice every day.
Yes, practice does make perfect. And guess what? The more you practice your Spanish lessons (however you're taking them) the faster you'll learn Spanish. It's just a fact of life, folks. So...practice every day.
8. Listen.
What? I said listen. Whether you're listening to audio files or actual people speaking, listen to the words being formed. This tip is so simple it's often overlooked. Listen very carefully and repeat the words over and over again until you can pronounce them with ease. The more you listen, the faster you'll learn.
9. Write.
Okay, this won't help you to speak Spanish, but you should be able to communicate in writing, too. So get out your pen, pencil or word processor and start writing. You will really have to think to do this so it'll help you learn Spanish at the same time. It sure will exercise your "brain muscles."
10. Courses
A great way to pick up Spanish in a hurry. You can buy courses off the Web that offer everything you need to learn a whole lot of Spanish in a short time. These courses usually come with books, audio files, transcripts, software, interactive games and sometimes videos. These courses won't help you master the language in 30 days, but you'll pick up enough to impress your friends and ask directions to the bathroom.
The tips outlined above will help you learn Spanish faster, but you must be committed. If you really want to learn Spanish in a hurry you will...if you're really committed. And if you are, nothing will stop you.
