🧧 I've been learning Mandarin for 2 weeks

My updated learning plan

Dear readers,

I finished my HSK 1 book last weekend. That’s 15 standardised short lessons for Chinese beginners. I’ve been enjoying it, although I pushed myself a bit hard to complete the book in 2 weeks. That’s more than one lesson a day, which quickly piled up with the workbook exercises and the flashcard reviews.

When I did my study planning, I noted the following times for each level:

• HSK 1 → 2 weeks (150 words in 15 lessons)

• HSK 2 → 2 weeks (+150 words)

• HSK 3 → 1 month (+300 words)

• HSK 4 → 2 months (+600 words)

That was assuming I would learn 10 words a day (about 1 lesson). Honestly, I feel confident I can reach HSK 4 this year if I stay consistent, but I’m not sure whether it would be smart to push myself this much. I need to take into account the reviews, and the fact that I’ll start immersing around HSK4. Plans are made to be adapted, so here’s my revised version for now:

• HSK 1 → 2 weeks (150 words)

• HSK 2 → 3 weeks (finished in June)

• HSK 3 → 2 months (finished in August)

• HSK 4 → 4 months (finished in December)

I’ll also have to review my Korean goals accordingly, but I’m not in a hurry since I’m already getting plenty of exposure through my daily TV sessions.

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So far, Chinese has been fun. I love workbooks, and the writing practise is a very interesting addition to my learning routine. But I had to give up writing the newsletter weekly, and also took a step back on other hobbies. Do you have any tips for balancing your interests and hobbies without losing interest?

Have a lovely end of the week.

Best,

Lou

✍️ Dear language learner

Learn your target language with useful phrases! Here are a few to translate to test yourself. If they’re relevant to you, you can add them to your notes or spaced-repetition system.

🌱 Beginner

I finished my first book.

🌿 Intermediate

It’s taking longer than I thought.

🌳 Advanced

I guess I’ll adapt my learning plan, then.

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📚 Learn more

How I started learning Mandarin Chinese.

🇨🇳 I started learning a difficult language, here's how

How I’m doing more while taking more breaks.

🍅 Timers never worked for me... until now

My setup and tips to avoid burnout.

🕯️ I'm slowly burning out, are you?

Thank you for reading “I heard from Lou”. It can be hard to find people who share your passion for learning. If you have friends who might like this letter, let them know.

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