Congratulations! You are on your way to learning a second (or a third?) language. If you have chosen Chinese, then brace yourself for one heck of an exciting journey. However, note that there are many variants when Chinese language comes to mind. There is Mandarin, Cantonese, and Wu to name a few. Of the many variants, Mandarin has the most number of native speakers. After deciding which dialect to pursue, there are still many questions that you need to answer for your own clarification. Below is a checklist of things to bear in mind when you plan to study the Chinese language.
1. How much time are you willing to devote for your study? Some people would like to have a time-table of their progress i.e. in one session, learn how to write your name in Chinese characters; learn conversational Standard Chinese in a month's time; learn how to write and deliver a Chinese poem. If you are a very busy person but would want to learn Chinese, the spoken language is much easier to learn. If you intend to immerse yourself in the whole cultural feel, then get an intensive tutorial on Chinese history, Chinese writing, grammar, and calligraphy.
2. What is your objective? Ask yourself what is the main reason you are taking Chinese lessons. Is it to learn common words? Do you intend to have Chinese characters tattooed on your arm and you'd want to know the meaning? Are you contented in learning few basic phrases to help you deal with your next trip to Shanghai? Are you meeting up with prospective business partners in Asia? Once you know your objective, then you can proceed in checking out what curriculum fits your needs.
3. What are your study options? Now that you have decided to study Chinese, the next step is to find resources. Are there classes offered in your area? If so, would the schedule fit yours? Classes usually have fixed schedules. This may not be convenient to your schedule. Another option is to opt for a personal language tutor. This offers flexible scheduling plus intensive lessons based on your preference. If you want to study Chinese for leisure, then you probably do not want to hassle yourself by going to classes. Learning step by step is made feasible by various desktop or smart-phone applications. Many downloadable tools for Chinese learning are available for free. All you need is an internet connection and a computer. Surf the web for other options.
4. Are you ready for action? Learning is best entrenched in the mind if practiced often. Chinese language is very useful. It gives you the added knowledge on the latest happenings just by tuning in to a Chinese TV channel. Why not entice your potential date with your newly learned Chinese love poem? Order the chef's specialty and say it out loud when you visit the finest Chinese restaurant in town. The possibilities are endless. Knowing another language aside from your own engages you in a more action-packed adventure.
By the way, do you want to learn more about the Chinese language?
If so, download my free report on "8 Common Myths of Learning Chinese" here: http://thechineselearner.com
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