How should you learn to speak Spanish? It's a valid question, just because you've seen someone else learn from an audio program in their car doesn't mean that's the best method for you. We all learn differently and have different strengths. For some an audio course might be the perfect method, while for you maybe software with interactive lessons would help you learn to speak Spanish quicker.

The key to all this is to recognize that we all learn differently, and spend the time determining what the best method is for you to learn Spanish. I'm going to give a brief overview of both audio lessons and software programs for learning Spanish. I hope they can help you decide what the best method for you is.

Spanish Audio Lessons

It wasn't all that long ago that CD's just weren't available. Cassettes ruled the record stores, and when you wanted to learn a new language it was either get a private tutor or purchase audio lessons on cassette.

This method worked for a long time, and today thanks to new technology it's still working you just get your lessons on a CD or even in MP3 format.

Who is this format ideal for? Anyone who wants to learn on the go in their car or using an MP3 player should consider learning Spanish from an audio course. You get a lot of content for the money as there are often hours and hours of vocabulary and pronunciation lessons.

Learning Spanish Software Programs

Probably more popular then audio courses learning Spanish software is the next best thing to having a private tutor in your home to coach you through learning Spanish. Are they better then audio course? Yes and no, it really depends on how you like to learn.

Those that remember things they hear will do well with audio programs, but often times people pay closer attention to interactive and video lessons that come with software programs like Tell me More Spanish or Rosetta Stone Spanish.

The other benefit that software offers over audio courses is a more technical look at reading and writing Spanish. It's difficult to learn verb conjugation from an audio lesson, while watching it being done on a computer screen is much easier to retain.

So which Method is Best for you to Learn Spanish?

Honestly there just isn't one best method. As discussed it comes down to your personal preferences, what you expect to learn, and when you want to learn. For example someone who wants to learn on the go and is mainly interested in conversational Spanish should purchase an audio program. While someone with more time on their hands at home that wants to master Spanish as a second language will likely have better luck with a software program.

Take the time to consider your expectations for learning Spanish, also how you enjoy learning and how much free time you have to learn and practice. All these things combined will lead you to the answer of which format of home Spanish lessons is best for you.