Now, if there’s anything that can impress and show off your great intelligence, it’s the ability to speak a foreign language.  The French language is considered one of the most impressive languages to learn.  It is the language of culture and sophistication and is completely iconic. Yet, French is in no way outdated, as it remains at the forefront of good culture and cuisine, and is the international language of democracy.

Several great options exist for learning French.  The French language program that you choose should reflect your own personal learning methods, but there are still some resources that are much more effective than others.

Software programs tend to be very good since they often offer immersion environments in which you can learn the language in a more natural manner.  If you are looking for an enjoyable way of learning, and one where you can go at your own pace, I definitely recommend this option.

Evening classes are the second option for learning French.  These are slightly less flexible, as you tend to be fixed in terms of class times.  You also have to face up to speaking French in front of other people. This can be very exciting for some, but a little nerve-wracking for others.  Learning through evening classes can be quite expensive, too, since the individual classes tend to be pricey, and you will need to take lessons over several semesters to gain any fluency.

Self-teaching yourself with textbooks and guides is a lot more economical, but it is also the least effective method.  Another flaw with these books is that they are a little one-dimensional and only offer a grammatical guide with a little vocabulary in between.  Since you can’t practice the spoken language and verify the pronunciations, this is not a very effective French language program.  This is why most textbooks end up on eBay or in a garage sale.

The most comprehensive French language program has to be a good online course.  Since the online courses are interactive they are much more fun than a dry textbook, and you will get practice both speaking French and listening to it.  They are also relevant and well put-together to ensure a logical and methodical progression through the language.  Plus, these programs are well suited to anyone interested in learning since they are so flexible and able to fit into your day comfortably.

The best way of learning a new language is through short lessons reviewed frequently, in a methodical manner.  This requires you to continually come back to the language to keep learning bit by bit.  Thankfully, a good online French language program will make this easy and fun, and before you know it you will not only be speaking French, but you’ll be hooked on learning!

Drew Bartlett is head writer for French Language Now, which provides free resources and articles about learning the French language, including reviews of the leading French language software.

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