Learning English from scratch may seem like a big challenge, but it is also one of the most valuable decisions you can make for your future. English is the most used language globally in areas such as work, studies, travel or culture, and mastering it opens doors in all these fields. If you do not know where to start, do not worry: in this FunTalk article we tell you the 7 basic pillars that will help you take your first steps in a clear, effective and confident way.
1. Clear motivation and realistic goals
Before learning any language, it is essential to ask yourself why you are doing it. Do you want to get a better job? Travel more fluently? Understand movies without subtitles? Having a clear motivation will help you stay focused when moments of frustration arise.
Also, set realistic goals: instead of saying “I want to speak perfect English”, start with more concrete goals such as “I want to have a basic conversation” or “I want to understand English songs”. These small but clear goals will allow you to measure your progress and keep you motivated.
2. Consistency and routine
One of the most common mistakes is to study only when you have the time or desire. Learning a language requires perseverance, even more than talent. It is not necessary to study three hours a day, but it is important to dedicate at least 15-30 minutes a day on a regular basis. A consistent routine, even if it is short, gives better results than long and sporadic sessions.
3. Daily exposure to the language
The best way to become accustomed to a new language is to surround yourself with it as much as possible. Listen to music in English, put subtitles on your favorite series , follow social media accounts that publish in English, change the language of your cell phone or your video games. The more you expose yourself to the language, the more natural your learning will become. Even if you don’t understand everything at first, your ear and your brain will gradually adapt.
4. Classes with an appropriate methodology
Having the support of professionals makes all the difference. A good teacher or academy not only teaches you grammar, but also knows how to motivate you, detect your mistakes and adapt to your learning style . Look for a dynamic and communicative methodology, where you can practice from day one. Learning English is not about memorizing vocabulary lists, but about using the language in real situations.
5. Balance between the four skills
A common mistake is to focus too much on one skill, such as grammar or reading comprehension. To speak English fluently you need to work on the four main skills:listening, speaking (speaking), reading(reading) and writing(writing). Try to maintain a balance in your study. For example, after reading a text, try to write a short summary; or after listening to a podcast, repeat out loud some sentences.
6. Do not be afraid to make mistakes
One of the biggest blocks to learning a language is the fear of making mistakes. Many learners dare not speak for fear of “sounding wrong” or “saying it wrong”. But making mistakes is a natural part of learning. In fact, every mistake is an opportunity to improve. The sooner you accept that you’re going to make a mistake (and that it’s okay), the sooner you’ll start letting go. The key is to practice without fear and with a positive attitude.
7. Patience and confidence in the process
Learning English does not happen overnight. It is a gradual process that requires time and dedication. There will be days when you feel like you are not making progress, or even regressing. But if you maintain a patient attitude and trust in your process, the results will come. Every new word you learn, every sentence you understand better, is a victory. Enjoy the journey, celebrate your achievements and don’t compare yourself to others.
Learning English is much more than memorizing grammar rules: it is developing a new way of communicating and opening up to the world. If you have a clear motivation, follow a constant routine and rely on a suitable methodology, you will advance much faster than you think. At our academy we help you build these pillars from day one, with practical, dynamic classes focused on your real objectives. Are you ready to start your English language journey?