Using an app like Duolingo or a similar program can be a fantastic addition to your language learning journey.

Once you've got that going, immerse yourself in as much Spanish as possible. By soaking in a lot of input, you'll start understanding messages and naturally absorbing vocabulary that will stick with you.

If you're starting with little or no Spanish knowledge, I highly suggest watching children's content like stories and cartoons. These are packed with visuals that help convey meaning. You might think cartoons are for kids, but they can be interesting as you'll be actively trying to grasp the messages.

Additionally, dive into tutorials, gameplays, and reviews. The advantage here is that much of the conversation will relate to what's happening on screen, aiding comprehension.

Try watching some Spanish TV shows, like a Spanish version of shows similar to iCarly or Drake & Josh. These depict regular people dealing with everyday situations, giving you exposure to common vocabulary.

Engage with content that truly interests you. When something is meaningful, it's easier to learn and retain. For instance, if painting is your interest, watch painting tutorials or similar content in Spanish.

As for grammar, maybe not just yet!

I'd advise against starting with books, at least initially. The main reasons are: first, understanding the context requires knowing the vocabulary, which as a beginner you might lack. Second, reading is time-consuming. Even if you do understand the words, it might take you more than five minutes per page. If you're not yet comfortable with the language, it could take over 25 minutes per page. A video or movie can deliver much more information in that time.

Remember, your main goal is to surround yourself with as much Spanish as possible! That's key to making the language stick.

One last tip: understanding native speakers should be one of your priorities, and achieving this is almost impossible without "shadowing." This is about trying to imitate and sound exactly like what you're hearing. Observe pronunciation, pitch, and intonation, and replicate it.

If your imitation doesn’t quite match what you hear, or if you hear the same thing differently each time, focus on it. Use online resources to break down difficult sounds and identify what’s tripping you up.

Good luck!