How often should you practise speaking?
There is no magic number. But a small amount often beats a large amount rarely. Here is a plan that fits around a normal week.
Short and regular wins
Twenty minutes four times a week beats one long Sunday session. Words you meet again soon are easier to recall. After a long gap you start over.
A simple weekly plan
- Two short study sessions of 15 to 20 minutes. Use an app, a book or a class.
- One speaking session of an hour. This is your language exchange or table.
- Five minutes a day of listening. A song, a podcast or a news clip on the way to work.
That is under three hours a week. It is realistic for most people.
How long should a meeting last
One hour is a good length. It leaves 30 minutes for each language. Longer than 90 minutes tires both people. If you only have 30 minutes, split it 15 and 15.
Use study to feed speaking
After each speaking session, write down five new words or phrases. Review them over the next two days. Bring them back to your next meeting and use them on purpose.
What if you miss a week
Missing a week is not a failure. Pick up where you left off. Start with a short session to warm up. Do not try to catch up by doing double.
Make it easy to turn up
- Fix the same day and time each week.
- Choose a place that is close to work or home.
- Tell your partner so they expect you.
- Put it in your calendar.
Know what you want
Set a small goal for the month. For example, "order a full meal in Italian". A goal you can describe is easier to reach.
If you are just starting, read language exchange for complete beginners. To find a partner, see how to find a language partner.
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