El Patio Spanish

What do you think your strengths and weaknesses are for learning Spanish?

I would say my strengths are that I keep trying even though I know I'll make a lot of mistakes along the way and if there is something I don't understand I keep working away at it until I do. 

I would say my weakness is that I revert back to English too quickly if I get stuck when speaking in Spanish.

What is your most effective method for memorisation?

Basically its all down to repetition. Keep going over and reusing what you've learnt.

What are or have been your most helpful resources? (eg, podcasts, songs, books, websites ...)

The Practise Makes Perfect range of Spanish grammar books are great. They are easy to follow and have heaps of exercises to do.

Websites like BBC Mundo and Muy Interesante have lot's of articles you can read.

YouTube has lots of clips and cartoons you can find in Spanish.

I found a Spanish speaker overseas through a language exchange website, who I correspond with via e-mail. It's a great way to practise and improve your writing skills.

What is your advice for anybody starting out learning Spanish?

Accept that you'll make mistakes and don't be too hard on yourself.

Treat it as a hobby and not a chore.

Look at it as a long term project and aim to keep improving over time rather than in a really short period eg. a month

Learn by doing a combination of things rather than just sticking to one method. Take classes, read articles you find interesting, speak in Spanish every opportunity you get, etc.