Chinese is considered the most spoken language in the world, and knowing it can help you build personal and business ties in Asia and throughout the world. However, before you start learning Chinese, it's important to get an understanding of the best resources available so that you can best use your time learning Chinese effectively. In this blog, we will introduce some of the best resources, such as books, apps, and other methods we have personally used to become proficient in Mandarin Chinese.
About the author: I am an American English native speaker who has been studying Chinese for almost two decades. I also hold a Bachelor's degree in Chinese and I know what it takes to become fluent in Mandarin as a native English speaker. 
1. Books
2. Flashcards Flashcards are a valuable tool for learning Chinese due to their efficiency in reinforcing vocabulary and aiding in character recognition. In the intricate world of Chinese characters, where each symbol carries its unique meaning and pronunciation, flashcards provide a systematic and bite-sized approach to memorization. Repetition through flashcards helps solidify memory, making it easier to recall characters and their meanings during actual language use. Additionally, flashcards can be easily customized to focus on individual learning goals. Whether used independently or as part of a structured study routine, flashcards prove to be an effective and versatile tool in the journey to mastering the Chinese language. Click here for a useful list of online flashcards. You can also search for other flashcards sets that are sold on Amazon here, or make your own! 3. Square Sheet Paper for Writing Characters Square sheet paper is the standard for learning to write characters. The even squares provide a framework for practicing stroke order and character proportions, aiding precision and consistency. Squared paper is particularly helpful for beginners, promoting spatial awareness and maintaining correct proportions in writing Chinese characters. Whether practicing basic strokes or crafting intricate characters, square sheet paper is a practical tool for honing the visual and motor skills essential for mastering Chinese writing. You can search for Chinese practice writing paper on Amazon here. 4. Apps In the modern digital era, one may consider skipping books altogether and learning Chinese digitally. There are quite a few apps that can be useful in your journey to mastering Chinese. Here are a few that we recommend:
5. Chinese Classes Taking college Chinese courses at a college or university is one of the best ways to improve Chinese. There are also many courses offered to adults in Taiwan or China that you can consider. One especially popular course is the Chinese program at National Taiwan Normal University. 6. Chinese Films Watching Chinese films after you have a foundation in Chinese can help to reinforce what you have learned, teach you new phrases, and teach you how to use certain words properly and in the right context. There are many great Chinese films on Netflix and Disney Plus that have both English and Chinese subtitles and dubbing. If you are a beginner, you might want to start easy by watching cartoons or children's movies. 7. Chinese-Speaking Friends Making friends who can speak Chinese is one of the best ways to improve your speaking and learning ability. It is important to make friends who will speak to you in Chinese and not cheat by speaking to you in English. If you ever want to master Chinese, you need to start having conversations with friends in Chinese and don't get caught in an English speaking expat bubble. You will have to start with simple topics, and you can expand more as you learn more vocabulary and are able to understand what you are hearing. You can also practice rehearsing a story: first, write it down in English and then translate it into Chinese. Memorize crucial vocabulary for the story and rehearse it with your Chinese-speaking friends. You can consider finding friends through Language Exchange Facebook Groups (https://www.facebook.com/groups/138436439550205). Language exchange groups are useful because there are many Taiwanese people and Chinese people who are seeking to improve their English, so you can engage with them and mutually learn each other's language for free. 8. Chinese Tutors: To properly learn Chinese quickly, effectively, and in a structured way, getting a Chinese tutor to help you may be the best resource. Here are a few Chinese Tutor resources you can consider:
They are based in Taichung and can provide the best Taiwan-based Mandarin courses around. Get 10% off with promo code: FOREIGNERS10 https://www.tutorabc.com/
There is no age limit to study a new language. Just keep dedicating yourself, improving your Chinese, and achieving your goals.
You can also check out our ten steps to mastering Chinese here.
Did we miss any useful Chinese resources in the list above? Let us know in the comments below.
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Author 作家I am an American expat who has extensive experience living, working, and traveling in Taiwan. In my day, I had to learn many things about Taiwan the hard way. But I have come to learn that Taiwan is one of the best places in the world for Foreigners to live. This blog does not represent the opinions of every foreigner in Taiwan. I am just trying to help others learn more about this beautiful country. Categories
|
- Home
- Travel Guides
-
Taiwan FAQ
- Blog
- Maps
-
About
- About
- Contact
- Twitter (X)
- YouTube
- Current Time and Date in Taiwan
- Privacy
-
More
>
-
Global Expat Travel Blog
>
- Hakka Kitchen
- Xiaoliuqiu Ferry Guide
- Bank Comparison
- Snow Hakka
- Mid-Autumn Festival
- Ghost Month
- Taiwan Vs. Thailand
- Morakot
- Gaemi
- Mango Guide
- Sand Fest
- TD 19
- Krathon
- Typhoon Kong-Rey
- Shen'ao Railbike
- Museum of World Religions
- Nanjichang Night Market
- Popsmile Tourist Factory
- Taiwan Science Center
- Taiwan Better Than Thailand
- Hualien Besides Taroko
- Taiwan Car Rental Guide
- Lunar/Chinese New Year Guide
- Taiwan Lantern Festival Guide
- Tomb Sweeping Festival
- Taiwan Travel Blog Posts >
-
Global Expat Travel Blog
>
RSS Feed