Hi everyone, I’ve just recently arrived in Spain and feel that language is still the biggest hurdle. Although I’m attending a language school, the pace is a bit slow, so I want to use my spare time to speed things up. But there are so many online resources that it’s overwhelming, and I’m not sure where to begin. Does anyone have recommendations for personally tested and effective websites or apps for learning Spanish?
After some trial and error, I’ve found a few platforms that I think are quite good. I’m sharing them here for your reference and would love for you all to add your suggestions!
Online Learning Platforms
If you want to learn Spanish on your own systematically, I think having a structured curriculum is essential. Just piecing things together randomly can lead to fragmented knowledge. These are the main ones I’ve tried:
- Duolingo: Everyone probably knows this one. It’s decent for getting your ear tuned in and memorizing vocabulary at the beginning. The advantage is its gamified approach, which makes it easy to stick with. But the downsides are also obvious: it’s a bit robotic, doesn’t explain grammar thoroughly, and I found it started to feel inadequate beyond the A2 level.
- Babbel: It’s more systematic than Duolingo, with lessons designed around real-life conversation scenarios. Personally, I find its grammar explanations clearer and the exercises more targeted. It is a paid service, but you can try the free lessons first to see if it suits you.
- Instituto Cervantes Official Website: Being the official source, its authority is unquestionable. You can find information on cultural events, DELE exam materials, and some free exercises. Their online course, AVE Global, is high-quality, but the price is quite steep. However, as a resource for exam preparation and supplementary reading, it’s definitely a top choice.
Useful Apps and YouTube Channels
Besides structured courses, making use of spare moments is also very important. Here are a few that I always keep on my phone:
| Tool Type | Recommendation | Brief Description |
|---|
| Dictionary App | SpanishDict | Excellent for English-Spanish translation, very comprehensive with conjugations and example sentences. |
| Listening App | News in Slow Spanish | A fantastic tool for listening practice, featuring slow-paced news with transcripts. |
| YouTube Channel | Why Not Spanish? | A channel by a Colombian girl; her teaching is very practical for daily life with a moderate speaking pace. |
| YouTube Channel | Dreaming Spanish | Pure comprehensible input, with videos for all levels from absolute beginner to advanced. |
The most important thing for self-studying Spanish is to find a rhythm and method that suits you and to stick with it. An inconsistent, on-and-off effort definitely won’t work. I think in the beginning, it’s good to try a combination of tools. For example, use Babbel for grammar, Duolingo for vocabulary drills, listen to News in Slow Spanish during your commute, and watch a Dreaming Spanish video before bed. I hope my experience can be helpful to you all, and I’m really looking forward to hearing your recommendations too!
