Learning Swedish in 30 days with Obsidian (and other apps) | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Explore effective language learning strategies, including using tools like Obsidian, Pimsleur, italki, and Brilliant, as well as setting specific goals and incorporating fun activities.

Key Insights

• 😫 Setting specific and achievable goals is more motivating and effective than aiming for fluency.
• 🔨 Tools like Obsidian, Pimsleur, italki, and Brilliant offer valuable resources and interactive learning experiences for language learners.
• 🎮 Incorporating fun activities like speaking from day one, watching videos, playing games, and doodling can enhance language learning.
• 👾 Flashcards and spaced repetition systems help reinforce vocabulary and grammar concepts.
• 💱 Using language exchange platforms can provide opportunities for speaking practice and cultural exchange.
• 👂 Immersion through authentic content like YouTube videos and books can improve listening and reading skills.
• 🍉 Language learning requires patience and a focus on enjoying the process rather than obsessing over long-term fluency.

Transcript

• I love learning languages. I live for that moment when I see someone's eyes light up, because I've said a phrase in their native language, and apparently I'm not the only one. Many of you love learning languages, too. So in this video, I'm gonna talk about different ways that I learn a language, using a variety of tools, including "Obsidian", and... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: What was the specific goal the speaker set for learning Swedish in 30 days?

The speaker aimed to be able to introduce themselves in Swedish and have basic conversations with their Swedish colleagues during a work trip to Stockholm.

Q: How does the speaker approach speaking from the beginning when learning a new language?

The speaker believes that speaking from day one provides motivation and helps them achieve their language learning goals. They start with audio courses like Pimsleur to learn pronunciation and basic phrases.

Q: What is italki, and how does the speaker utilize it for language learning?

italki is a platform that connects language learners with native speakers for language exchanges or lessons. The speaker prefers to pay for community tutors or formal teachers to practice speaking and receive guidance in their target language.

Q: How does the speaker use Obsidian for language learning?

The speaker has a project page in Obsidian called "Learn Swedish" where they organize resources and keep track of their progress. They also use flashcards and spaced repetition with Anki and Obsidian's flashcard plugins.

Q: What was the specific goal the speaker set for learning Swedish in 30 days?

The speaker aimed to be able to introduce themselves in Swedish and have basic conversations with their Swedish colleagues during a work trip to Stockholm.

More Insights

• Setting specific and achievable goals is more motivating and effective than aiming for fluency.

• Tools like Obsidian, Pimsleur, italki, and Brilliant offer valuable resources and interactive learning experiences for language learners.

• Incorporating fun activities like speaking from day one, watching videos, playing games, and doodling can enhance language learning.

• Flashcards and spaced repetition systems help reinforce vocabulary and grammar concepts.

• Using language exchange platforms can provide opportunities for speaking practice and cultural exchange.

• Immersion through authentic content like YouTube videos and books can improve listening and reading skills.

• Language learning requires patience and a focus on enjoying the process rather than obsessing over long-term fluency.

• Tracking progress and incorporating language learning into daily routines can help maintain consistency and motivation.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The goal of language learning is often to become fluent, but setting smaller, specific goals can be more motivating and achievable.

• Using tools like Obsidian, Pimsleur, italki, and Brilliant can enhance language learning by providing resources, audio courses, language exchanges, and interactive lessons.

• Incorporating fun activities like speaking from day one, watching YouTube videos, playing language-based games, and doodling can make the language learning process more enjoyable and effective.