Studying for French Tests and Exams

Whatever your reason for learning French, you want to do so as efficiently as possible. Make the most of your study time with these language-learning tips and tricks.
 

Tip 1: Understand what fluency is - and isn't

There's no secret recipe for fluency; indeed, it's difficult to even find consensus on what "fluency" actually means.
 

Tip 2: Don't believe the myths

Fact: Everyone who can speak one language can speak two.
 

Tip 3: Listen in preparation for learning

If you're a complete beginner, one of the best things you can do to jumpstart your language learning journey is spend some time absorbing the sounds of the language.
 

Tip 4: Have realistic expectations

Learning a language like French is more a matter of racking up study hours than anything else. Your native ability is secondary.
 

Tip 5: Know that it's OK to feel stupid

Being self-conscious about making mistakes is counter-productive, so don't be.
 

Tip 6: Intensity is vital to language learning

Immersion in a language exponentially increases your language hours, and inversely decreases your fluency timeline.
 

Tip 7: Be kind to yourself

Practicing self-compassion has numerous benefits related to learning a new language.
 

Tip 8: Repetition is one of the most important, yet undervalued learning techniques

A recent study proves scientifically that slightly modifying repetitions can actually double the speed at which you learn.
 

Tip 9: Practising recall is 300% more effective than revision alone

Don't spend hours poring over material you've already read. Just reread enough to understand or remind yourself of the information and then practise recalling the information by taking French tests.
 

Tip 10: Learn about learning

Learning how to learn is key to mastery, but it turns out that tried and true methods of learning aren't necessarily so true after all.

 

Related info:  Official French Tests & Diplomas | French Test Prep