Pimsleur: the best way to learn a language

First, a disclaimer: I'm not getting paid to say this. I am not affiliated with Pimsleur in any way, and there are no affiliate links here. I'm simply a huge fan of a great product.

I've used many programs to study languages, including (but not limited to):

• Berlitz
• Living Language
• Rosetta Stone
• Teach Yourself
• VocabuLearn

Pimsleur beats them all, hands down. Here's why I recommend it to anyone wanting to learn a language:

1. It teaches you using the same methods you used to learn your first language as a baby. So the focus is on listening and speaking, and you learn the grammar intuitively. So no more studying charts, paradigms, conjugations, etc.


2. The repetition is built-in. With other programs, I end up having to repeat the lessons over and over. I end up getting bored and don't retain much information at all. Not so with Pimsleur.


3. Because the focus is on listening and speaking, you actually get comfortable speaking the language. I've used other programs that help me learn how to read a language, but that does little in helping me communicate with other people. With Pimsleur, you'll be speaking from day one (literally).


4. Let's face it, I'm busy. I don't have time to sit in front of a computer and do Rosetta Stone for hours, or study a book for hours. Pimsleur's focus on listening and speaking means I can do the lessons during my commute, at the gym, folding clothes, whatever.

So what are you waiting for? The first lesson for your language of choice is available from Pimsleur's website for free. I think they should make the second lesson available for free too, but something is better than nothing.

Where to get Pimsleur:

• Your local library
  Many local libraries have Pimsleur available to check out for free. Can't hurt to check.


• Used online or locally
  You might be able to find Pimsleur used on sites like ebay, amazon, or at a local used bookstore.


• Buy the digital version from pimsleur.com
  Sometimes this can even be cheaper than a used copy of the CDs, and if you're like me and would rather listen to it on your phone/mp3 player than have to carry around a stack of CDs, it's win-win.


• Buy the CDs new
  This is probably the most expensive option: buying the Pimsleur CDs new from pimsleur.com or another site like amazon.

If you do end up buying online, be sure to use my tip to check if there's a coupon code before you pay the full retail price!:
How to save money when shopping online