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My Go-To Resources As A Language Enthusiast
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items It’s been a decade since I started learning foreign languages. These are the tools I stand by and have got results (no BS) in terms of improving listening, comprehension, and whatnot.
Sections
3
Daily Use Language Apps
Favorite Language Blogs
Spanish Podcasts
Daily Use Language Apps
These are the apps I currently use and/or have used daily in the past. A few I stop using, not because they are no longer effective, but I’ve found something better. However, I still recommend because they are worth checking.
Duo has a special place in my heart as it was the very first app I used (and still use) when I began my journey. Some say it's not as helpful as one can expect. I use it as one of my micro learning methods. It's good for beginners, hobbyists and as a...
Duolingo: Manage Your Expectations (WYSIWYG)
I found Memrise around the same time as Duolingo, though I no longer use it at the moment, I did enjoy the Immerse section a lot. I never upgrade, but if I use it again, I'll definitely do so because there are many amazing features being introduced r...
Memrise: Improve Your Writing & Understanding Skills
The moment I decided to learn Spanish grammar, SS was my go-to. This, along with Duolingo & Memrise, was my ‘staple’ resources for years. I knew almost all about grammar from it. I can't recommend it enough! 👍
StudySpanish: My Introduction To Grammar
I used Pimsleur when I learnt German from scratch (to see the effectiveness). It did improve my listening a bit. Had I used it for a longer period (I used it for a review purpose only) and been genuinely interested in learning the language itself, I could see the potential. This includes an affiliate link.
Pimsleur: Train Your Listening Skills
SD is the second grammar resource I use after StudySpanish. I stopped using it for a few years and started using it again somewhere this year. Can’t imagine my life without it! 😍
SpanishDictionary: A Must Have In Your Arsenal
I used TII diligently for over 2 months for a review. I won’t forget the moment a friend tested my knowledge, and it blew my mind. I highly recommend it!👍
Think in Italian: What I'll Use Again & Again
It’s fun to test my writing and listening skills. Besides, I get to learn a few new words (in context) daily. You’ll love the AI grammar explanation feature - I guarantee it! It breaks down everything in a straightforward manner.
Clozemaster: It's More Than Just A Cloze!
Favorite Language Blogs
Even though I'm no longer a newbie, I still read these blogs from time to time to get advice, tips, rare resources, etc.
I found Luca from his YouTube channel. His blog covers grammar strategies, mindset & habits, speaking skills, etc.
Luca Lampariello: Founder of Smart Language Academy & Polyglot
I knew her from her blog when I was doing brainstorming for a post, and have been one of her frequent visitors ever since. She covers goal & progress, habits & balance, listening motivation, etc.
Lindsay Does Languages: Teach You How To Learn A Language & Polyglot
If your goal is to improve your speaking skills, his blog offers numerous tips and resources on the topic.
Fluent in 3 Months: Benny The Irish Polyglot
Spanish Podcasts
I’m able to achieve two things by doing this: Improve my listening and comprehension skills. I learn so many new things, not just their cultures.
Beginner-friendly. If you’re the curious type always wanting to know why they are structured the way they are, the origin of certain words, etc, start with this.
Language Transfer: No Need To Do Anything. Just Think.
CBS has podcasts for every level. Each level which is named ‘season’ has 40 audios. I like that they state the objectives for each so learners know what they would be able to achieve.
Coffee Break Spanish: Build Your Vocab & Grammar Understanding Step By Step
This podcast has been around for years. I love that they are categorized by level from beginner to advanced so you don’t have to guess.
Notes in Spanish: Bite-Sized & Doable
Preferably upper-intermediate. It’s a ‘long-form audio journalism’ that tells the story of Latin American people you won’t see much being reported on out there. They cover social and cultural issues.
Radio Ambulante: The King of All Podcasts
Intermediate level. I’ve learned a lot from just one short podcast. We all know grammar is one of the hardest, but she makes learning the rules look easy.
Spanishland School: Learn Things That Will Make You Sound Like A Native
The stories are from Spanish-speaking countries (mostly Latin American). It’s fascinating to know what’s happening out there in the Spanish-speaking world through their lenses.
Duolingo Podcast: True-Life Stories Worth Listening To!