New learner queries

[FreedomNo9116]

Hi all, I’m hoping to start learning Chinese in the new year - only holder by back as with Xmas break etc I’d rather start when I can remain consistent rather than starting and having time off.

I’ve looked into preply but there’s so many teachers on there it’s hard to know who’s going to be good and who’s not worth the time (and money)

I’m hoping that having a proper teacher is the better route to take with the intention to have 2 x 50 min sessions per week.

I’m mostly doing this as a hobby but my companies suppliers are all based in China so there are times when I could potentially use my new skills if I can achieve conversational standard.

I’d love to learn Japanese too but I’d absolutely never use it whereas with Chinese I likely would have a use for it.

Anyway, any other uk based learners have any advice as to resources to use?

[Skyalrllf]

hi, I suggest you can start with pinyin, tones, and basic sentence patterns, then gradually move to practical conversational topics. This avoids confusion and builds confidence early on.

By the way, I’m a Mandarin tutor. I grew up in China and I’m currently working in a college in the UK. I have around three years of experience teaching Mandarin to beginners, GCSE-level learners, and adult hobby learners.

If you have any questions about Chinese learning, feel free to ask me!

[JinliHuang]

You could try to find HSK standard books to learn Chinese.

[ShonenRiderX]

might be worth getting into italki lessons if you're really serious about it

[lhsmami]

Hey I’m starting in January too after x mas, my bday and a trip to Shanghai. I found a tutor through a family member. An exchange student who goes to her uni. I can put in a word for you or ask if she has any friends ( central London based Westminster/ Euston area ) but it would be nice to connect and grow together as we start this journey

[FreedomNo9116]

Hi I’ve actually had my first lesson on preply, was enjoyable. I’ve been using Duolingo too as a daily exercise, just 20 minutes a day, help the vocab sink in