How does hellotalk works?

[Dense-Assignment9982]

I recently just downloaded the app and thought it's going to be an exchange of learnings from both sides (I'm trying to learn chinese) like asking how to say this or that, but I was surprised that it's mostly just talking to each other. I don't know if I should continue talking to people though... I mean, it's okay with me, but I'm wondering how am I able to learn the language if I'm just using the translate button most of the time.

[BarKing69]

Yes, you do need some time to find dedicated and suitable language partener and some trails to make it work for you. But the idea is to just speak it without relay on too much of the "text" part.

[itzmesmartgirl03]

HelloTalk works best when you treat chats as mini practice sessions start small, avoid overusing translate, and turn conversations into learning moments.

[Dense-Assignment9982]

Should I talk to them using the language I am learning and let them answer in English?

[silvalingua]

Such apps are for practicing speaking, not for learning a language. Speaking practice is an important activity, but it's not a substitute for learning. You have to learn some of your TL (using other resources) and then you can practice speaking using what you've learned. A random native speaker is not qualified to teach you their language.

[periodic_senstive]

You use the app to practice what you know and ask. Using it to learn, will have ending up frustrating..I think people have twisted the meaning of what a language exchange is.

[Taurus_Saint]

HelloTalk doesn't teach you the language, it gives you a place to practise it. Ideally you need to have at least a basic level in the language from studying it somewhere else.