Learning: Mandarin Chinese
5 things to know before you start learning Mandarin 🗣️
Published
① Learn the sound with the word
When you learn a Mandarin word, listen to it as well as reading it. Pinyin gives you a way to write the pronunciation, including tone marks, but a recording lets you hear what those marks sound like.
Start with a phrase you can use today, such as 谢谢 (xièxie), “thank you.” Play it, repeat it and check it again. Keep the characters, pinyin, meaning and audio together in your notes.
② Start speaking before you know many characters
You can practise a short introduction while you are still learning to read. Speaking and character study can both have a place in your day.
Try 我叫… (Wǒ jiào…), “My name is…” Say your name, then imagine someone introducing themselves back. Practise hearing their name too, so the exercise includes a reply.
③ Keep learning characters alongside your phrases
Pinyin can help you get started, but give yourself chances to recognise the characters too. Begin with words you have already heard and used.
For example, look for 谢谢 in a message after practising it aloud. Cover the pinyin and see whether you recognise the word. Add a few familiar characters at a time instead of testing yourself on an entire page.
④ Learn questions you can actually answer
A saved question becomes more useful when you practise both sides of the exchange. Choose a question about something familiar, such as your name or favourite drink.
Ask 你喝什么？ (Nǐ hē shénme?), “What are you drinking?” Then answer 我喝茶。 (Wǒ hē chá.), “I’m drinking tea.” Change the drink and try the exchange again.
⑤ Leave room to repeat yesterday’s practice
You do not need a completely new lesson every day. Return to a few phrases until you can recognise them and use them with less help.
Before adding anything tomorrow, try your introduction and your drink question without looking. Check the part you forgot, listen again and have another go.