How To Learn French

How To Learn French

First, there were books to learn French, then CDs and DVDs, and now we have to learn French software. As technology progresses it seems we get more and more out of it. Or do we? Is this software a great leap forward in learning French quickly or is it just a bunch of recycled French books in a different format. The same dull old stuff as before in a flashy wrapper?

Let’s get one thing clear from the start. If you’re looking at learning French for free then good French software is not for you. There are some very good sites and blogs for learning a basic French phrase or two online, but that isn’t the purpose of these programs. Software for learning French is aimed either at the person who needs to learn French fast – perhaps because they’re going to live or work in France – or it’s aimed at those people who find that a few useful French phrases are not enough. It’s for those people whose own drive demands that they become a confident French speaker rather than someone who can just order a train ticket and a cup of coffee.

If all you want to do is order a drink, or get from one place to another then don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with that at all! It’s just not what learning French software programs are there for – and you won’t want to make the investment required.

Not that the investment is huge. If you compare it to personal tuition you would get a whole course of French lessons with sound, interactive role-play and fast, immersion-style teaching for the price of just a couple of sessions. Compared to the high-end CD systems – which is where these French downloads should be ranked – you’re only paying a third or less. They are certainly competitively priced.

Something you’ll get from some learning French software that you won’t get from many CDs or DVDs is a free trial. One top French download gives six free lessons so you can try it before you buy it. Not common at all. They also provide a guarantee that I haven’t seen anywhere else – that if they don’t turn you into a confident French speaker they will give you your money back. Try that at your local CD store!

Modern French software downloads are way more than a book in a different format. They employ all the modern techniques they can to make learning French not just fast, but also fun. If you want – or need – to learn French to a good standard it’s a choice that will save you time and – in the long run – money as well. Can I recommend a good place to find out more about the best French downloads? Yep: There are also tips and ideas for speaking “real” French, plus pro lessons that you can get for absolutely nothing.