How to start learning French?

Learning French requires focus and persistence. Languages evolve, and teaching methods change, but one truth remains: progress depends on consistent effort. There are no shortcuts to fluency.

Motivation: The Engine of Learning

The strongest driving force in language learning is motivation.

Polyglots succeed because they genuinely love discovering new languages. If you study French with the same enthusiasm, success will follow naturally. Without curiosity and passion, even the best teacher cannot inspire real mastery. Interest fuels perseverance, and enjoyment keeps you going when progress slows.

Maintain motivation by setting small, achievable goals, such as:

• “Within two months, I want to write a short message in French.”
• “In class, I’ll speak only French.”

Each goal achieved boosts confidence and drive.

Compare two learners: one studies to impress a French friend, the other only to pass an exam. The first is enthusiastic; the second, merely dutiful. The outcome speaks for itself. Motivation turns learning from obligation into pleasure.

Choosing the Right Learning Approach

Children and adults learn languages differently. Children absorb language naturally through listening and interaction; adults need logic and meaning, so they analyze patterns and connect new knowledge with life experience.

Understand your own learning style. Visual learners benefit from charts and reading; auditory learners gain most from conversations and audio; logical learners prefer grammar and structure. Adjust your methods to your style for greater efficiency.

Start with Pronunciation

Mastering pronunciation early prevents future confusion. In French, even slight pronunciation differences can change meaning, like nous (we) and nu (naked).

If you store a word incorrectly in memory, you may not recognize it when others say it. Practice pronunciation and spelling carefully. Listen to native speakers, imitate their rhythm and intonation, and speak often. Reading aloud in front of a mirror helps improve mouth position and confidence.

You can also improve pronunciation via Minimal Pairs app for Android.

Grammar: The Framework of Language

Grammar supports the structure of French. It is not an end in itself but a foundation. Focus first on verbs, the core of communication. Start with basic verbs: être (to be), avoir (to have), faire (to do), vivre (to live). Learn their conjugations until they become instinctive. Then use them in short, practical sentences in various tenses.

French grammar may seem complex, but patterns emerge through practice. Once you master verbs, expand vocabulary and expressions, not as isolated words but as meaningful phrases.

Make Learning Enjoyable

Combine learning with entertainment to stay consistent. Watch French films, listen to music, read short texts, books, or online articles. Regular exposure builds familiarity and confidence.

Most importantly, use the language. Write messages, chat online, or join discussions on social platforms. Real communication accelerates progress.

Short, frequent sessions several times a day for 10-15 minutes are more effective than long but infrequent study. Constant exposure keeps your brain in French mode. With focus, curiosity, and daily effort, fluency will come.

Useful Resources

• TED Talk: 5 Techniques to Speak Any Language – Polyglot Lydia Machová on staying motivated with a personal system.
• VARK Learning Styles Overview – Quick questionnaire to understand how you absorb information best.
• CEFR Self-Assessment Grid – Benchmark your skills and set realistic goals.
• Forvo French Pronunciation – Native speaker recordings for thousands of French words.
• Tex’s French Grammar – Clear explanations and exercises covering core grammar.
• Le Conjugueur – Fast lookups for verb conjugations across tenses.
• TV5MONDE Apprendre – Video-based exercises sorted by CEFR level.
• Podcasts and Canadian Podcasts – Diverse native listening material with transcripts for many shows.
• Flashcards - A collection of Anki flashcard decks.