Start Learning French
By Laura K. Lawless, About.com Guide to French Language
Here is everything you need to start learning French: basic information about French, beginning lessons, sound files, study tips, online tests, practice ideas, Q & A forum, and so much more.
What Is French?
Learn about the French language: where it came from, where it's spoken and by how many people, why you should learn it, and how it compares to other languages.
French Lessons
Start learning French with these basic French lessons, including vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation; simple French sound files; and how to use your English to help you learn French.
- French numbers
- French pronunciation
- French vocabulary
- French-English cognates (vrais amis)
- French-English spelling equivalents
French Learning Advice
There is no single perfect way to learn French, but some ways are better than others. Your personal circumstances, too, can make a difference in deciding how and where you should learn French.
- What is the best way to learn French?
- Study tips
- Travel French
- Tips for adults learning French
- French for kids
French Practice
It doesn't matter how much you study if you never practice what you've learned. Visit the forum or find a pen pal for reading and writing practice, join the Alliance française or take a trip to France to practice listening and speaking, or just play a game or two for fun.
French Tools
Books, tapes, CDs, software, the internet... all of these can be helpful in learning French. Check out these links for recommendations and reviews of the best French learning tools.
- Learn French checklist
- Essential tools for beginners
- French audio tools
- Beginning French readers
- French dictionaries
French Assessment
Whether you studied French long ago or have been learning for a while, you can use these links to find out what you know and what you still need to work on, as well as how your study habits rate.
