Learn Thai Language

Learn Thai Language? How we'd approach it...

If you are just starting out as a Thai language student then there are any number of ways to start learning the language, including attending a formal Thai course. After much feedback we think the following approach may be the most beneficial:

1. Step 1: Thai phrasebook, DVDs and Audio CDS only.
   Instead of jumping in the deep end and trying to learn Thai script and technical aspects of the language, work on some basic Thai first. How? By watching Thai language DVDs, listening to learning Thai audio CDs and what you can from a Thai travel phrasebook. Why: to build some confidence and belief that Thai is something you can and will learn.
2. Step 2: Take a Thai crash course!
   We recently added Let's Talk Thai to our catalogue which is considered a crash course. It focuses on the most commonly used words and phrases and is broken down nicely for complete beginners studying the Thai language. This is another confidence building step which keeps your momentum and skills growing positively. You can also have a go at any of the Speak Like a Thai series.
3. Step 3: Work on your Thai accent.
   By now you can see why a lot of emphasis is placed on getting your pronunciation right when speaking Thai. So now would be a good time to improve your Thai pronunciation. You are still learning so don't get frustrated. Your brain (and tongue ;) will adjust to handle it soon, just persist.
4. Step 4: Start learning about basic Thai language rules.
   At this point you are ready to take on what many Thai courses want you to, perhaps prematurely. Thai for Beginners is what you should be looking at tackling now. Thai for Beginners will start to formalise your Thai studies with structure commonly used in Thai classes.
5. Step 5: Join a Thai Language Course. (Optional)
   If you are willing and able, now you should be ready to take full advantage of a Thai course (if that is an option where you live). By now your listening and Thai pronunciation skills are beyond that of most people who attend a Thai course and you will feel confident enough to speak out loud and reply to others in the class, instead of trying to shrink into your seat like most students when asked a question by their Thai teacher.

Once you are comfortably beyond the advanced beginners level, we would then suggest you look at Thai for Intermediate Learners and Thai for Advanced Readers.