Learning a new language as an adult can be a daunting task. Unlike when we were children, mastering grammar rules, pronunciation, and vocabulary can seem like a never-ending journey. However, there are several effective ways to learn a new language as an adult.

Growing up bilingual and learning a third language at the age of three, I found that learning a new language was effortless. I was one of the top performers in my language classes, and it seemed like my brain had an innate ability to absorb and retain new information. But when I decided to move to France and learn yet another language, I quickly realized that learning a language as an adult was much more challenging.

Here are seven effective ways to learn a new language as an adult:

1. Focus on Learning Sounds First

As adults, we tend to lose our ability to memorize and distinguish sounds as efficiently as children. However, studies show that it is possible to regain this ability. To master a new language, focus on learning the sounds first, rather than focusing solely on grammar and vocabulary. Repeat and practice the difficult foreign sounds, listen to the language, and repeat the phrases and sounds as they are spoken. Immediate feedback from language learning software can also be beneficial.

Additionally, listening to different accents and voices trains your brain to comprehend the language more efficiently, so expose yourself to as many speakers as possible.

2. Use the “Spaced Repetition” Technique

Spaced repetition is an effective technique for memorizing new words and phrases. It involves reviewing each word and phrase at certain spaced intervals. At first, those intervals should be shorter, so you may need to review a new word or phrase several times in one practice session, and then the next day. Once the information is memorized, you can review it less frequently.

3. Try the “Pinch Yourself” Hack

The pinch yourself hack involves using negative stimuli to boost language learning. According to a study conducted by the Department of Psychology and Center for Neural Sciences at New York University, negative stimuli improve memory. The technique involves getting a set of flashcards for memorizing vocabulary or grammar, then mastering the hard pinch to activate your body’s threat response. Review a category of flashcards without pinching, then review the same category with the pinch for each vocabulary word. During subsequent study sessions, pinch yourself only on the forgotten vocabulary.

4. Schedule Learning Sessions Before Bedtime.

Sleep helps us clean our active operating memory, meaning that learning before bedtime or taking a nap after a practice session moves all the information you’ve learned into your brain’s long-term memory storage. You’ll be able to remember everything more easily and accurately once it’s stored in long-term memory.

5. Study the Content, Not the Language

Students who study other subjects in a foreign language, rather than attending general language classes, perform better in listening tests and are more motivated to learn, according to a study published in the Cambridge Journal. Try including content on topics that interest you to improve your understanding. Read articles, watch videos, or listen to podcasts to accelerate your progress.

6. Mix Old and New Words

To remember new concepts, mix them with familiar information. Trying reading a book you know in a foreign language. The story is familiar, and the language is simple enough to help you understand the meaning of new words without using a dictionary.

7. Study in Sprints

Studying in short sprints every day is more effective than cramming a significant chunk of knowledge into your head every other week. Our brains have limited inbox space, which gets cleared out when we sleep. Studying in small sprints every day and using spaced repetition will give you the best results.

Learning a new language as an adult can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By focusing on sounds, using spaced repetition, and scheduling learning sessions before bedtime, you’ll soon be on your way to fluency. Remember to mix old and new words, study in sprints, and expose yourself to content that interests you. With the right approach, learning a new language can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.