12 Months of Mandarin (isaak.net)

Article summary

The author learned Mandarin Chinese to a conversational level in 12 months, spending around 1500 hours, which is significantly less than the estimated 4000 hours required to achieve intermediate fluency. The author used a combination of classroom hours, tutoring, and self-study methods, including Anki and watching Chinese media. They also traveled to China and immersed themselves in the language, which greatly accelerated their learning. The author notes that their approach was not focused on passing tests, but rather on achieving practical fluency.

Main themes

• Language learning strategies
• Mandarin Chinese
• Immersion and travel
• Spaced repetition
• Language proficiency estimates
• Self-study methods

What commenters say

• The power of spaced repetition systems, such as Anki, is highly effective for language learning, but can be overemphasized.
• Immersion is a key factor in language learning, and traveling to a country where the language is spoken can greatly accelerate progress.
• Some argue that formal testing is not necessary for language learning, and that comprehension and practical fluency are more important goals.
• Others disagree, suggesting that formal testing can provide a useful benchmark for progress and help identify areas for improvement.
• The importance of spaced repetition systems is debated, with some arguing that they can hinder language learning if overused or relied upon too heavily.
• Language learning methods that focus on comprehension and input, such as watching TV shows or listening to podcasts, can be highly effective.
• The role of tutors and one-on-one instruction in language learning is also highlighted, with some arguing that it can provide valuable feedback and acceleration of progress.
• The idea that language learning requires a significant amount of time and effort is challenged by the author's experience, which suggests that focused and efficient learning methods can lead to rapid progress.