Many teachers insist on the need to master the basics when learning a language. However, I propose that this logic is not correct or productive. Yes, it may seem surprising or contradictory, but I affirm with total certainty that obsessing over the basics is not the best strategy. Now I will explain why.
The Impossibility of Mastering the Basics
Many times we hear that before advancing in a language, we must first “master the fundamentals.” But what does that really mean? Learning grammar well? Memorizing the most common words? The reality is that no one can truly “master” the basics of a language, especially at the beginning of learning. No matter how many grammar books you read or how many vocabulary lists you memorize, the truth is that you will forget many things and need to review what you have studied several times before solidifying your learning.
The learning process is not linear and cannot be forced to follow an arbitrary order. Certain elements of a language, even the most basic ones, will resist us, and the order in which we acquire a language is completely individual. Even after years of study, I still make mistakes in “basic” things in several of the languages I speak. And that’s okay. I keep moving forward.
The Natural Order of Language Acquisition
Steven Krashen, one of the most influential linguists in language acquisition, talks about the natural order of acquisition. The idea is simple: we learn the structures of a language in a specific order, regardless of how they are taught to us. That is, we will acquire a language at our own pace and in an individual order that instruction cannot alter.
This order may vary depending on our native language and the language we are learning, but the important thing is that we cannot force it. It is pointless to obsess over a grammar rule thinking that we cannot progress until we master it in a certain order. In reality, each person will naturally (and individually) acquire those structures through exposure to the language.
What You Should Really Do
If you shouldn’t focus on the basics, then what should you focus on? Very simple:
- Listen and read a lot. Exposure to the language is the most important thing.
- Learn words and structures in context. You don’t need to memorize vocabulary lists; common words will appear over and over again. At first, you will only recognize them, and eventually, you will be able to remember and use them.
- Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. It is completely normal to continue making mistakes in “basic” aspects even after a long time. Errors are inevitable, and you need to accept that, little by little, your language skills will improve.
- Focus on communication, not perfection. The goal is to understand and make yourself understood, not to speak like a native from day one.
The Myth of Building Language Like a House
Many times we compare language learning to building a house: first we lay the foundation, then the walls, the roof, etc. But it’s not like that.
Language is not built linearly. It is more like a fuzzy puzzle, where some pieces fit before others, some appear later, and the whole process is chaotic but natural. It doesn’t matter how you progress, as long as you move forward!
As long as you have a consistent and sufficient exposure to the language, you will see progress. I’m not saying it doesn’t help to be intentional about your learning. It makes sense to reflect and evaluate your priorities. However, keep in mind that your learning will not unfold exactly as you predict.
Instead of obsessing over learning “correctly” from the beginning, the best thing you can do is continue exposing yourself to the language, enjoy the process, and let your brain do its work.
Conclusion
Don’t waste time trying to “master the basics.” It is not possible and not necessary. The important thing is to immerse yourself in the language, make mistakes, and keep moving forward. If you follow this approach, you will see that your understanding and fluency improve over time, without the need to force it.
Enjoy the journey of language learning! See you in the next article.
