Often readers ask me what the best way to study the material in this site is. As you may realize, there are many approaches and what works for some may not work for others. However, here is one way that many people have found to be effective.

1. Carefully read through the transcript. Make sure you thoroughly understand the grammar, vocabulary and the pronunciation.

2. While listening to the audio follow along with the transcript. First, listen to the slow version then listen to it at normal speed.

3. While playing the slow speed version repeat each phrase. Use the pause button if you can’t keep up. Then try the same thing with the normal speed version.

4. Without using the transcript, shadow the slow speed version. Try to imitate the pronunciation and intonation of the speaker as accurately as possible.

5. Next, practice shadowing without the transcript at normal speed.

For steps four and five, I find it is very helpful to do them while walking. Walking and shadowing at the same time forces your brain to work extra hard. It trains your brain to automate the task of comprehending the new language. This trick will help speed up your progress.

If you have any suggestions or ideas for studying feel free to leave them in the comments section below. And don’t hesitate to comment in your native language.