How NOT to Learn a Language
Inspired by a viral video of a Chinese boy doing his English homework, I thought I’d make an episode where I list 10 common mistakes that language learners make and what you should avoid.
To be clear, I’m sure that boy will master English one day, and my comments were more of a criticism of language education in schools. The video simply reminded me of some of the mistakes I’ve made along the way.
With that in mind, while I share my 10 habits to avoid, I also give examples when I’ve done these things in my own life. So let’s learn together and see if we can learn more efficiently.
(If anyone knows that boy’s original Chinese social media account, let me know! I’ll link it here. I’m unable to find it now.)
Episode Summary
Here’s a review of the points I mentioned in the episode.
🗣️ Reciting Sentences Mindlessly
Repeating phrases without context won’t get you far. Real learning happens when you connect words to meaning and situations.
📖 Studying Words in Isolation
Long word lists may feel productive, but without sentences or context, it’s hard to actually use them in conversation.
⚖️ Neglecting a Skill
Focusing only on reading or grammar can leave gaps. Like exercise, you need balance—listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
🔥 Relying Only on Motivation
Waiting until you “feel like it” is risky. Systems, habits, and routines matter far more than bursts of motivation.
❌ Avoiding Mistakes
Being afraid to make errors keeps you stuck. Mistakes aren’t failure—they’re how you learn and improve.
🎧 No Real Input
Grammar rules alone won’t build fluency. You need authentic input—listening and reading real-world content.
🔁 Never Reviewing
Doing a lesson once isn’t enough. Without review, most of what you learn is forgotten within days.
📺 Being Too Passive
Watching shows or listening to music in your target language is great—but without active practice, progress will be slow.
🔄 Constantly Switching Resources
Jumping between apps and methods feels exciting, but consistency is what really brings results.
🎯 Learning Without Purpose
Without a clear reason or goal, it’s hard to stay focused. Purpose gives direction to your studies.
⭐️ Transcript & Bonus Lesson
Preview: Let's take a look at the transcript to improve our vocabulary and listening skills. Watch the live transcript below or click to open in a new window.
Key phrases with natural examples, ability to search for text, PDF copies too.
Which point above have you struggled with this most?
Comment your thoughts below.
Dear Michael,
I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for your “Level Up English” podcast. My name is ABDULHADI ALI, and I’m from Iraq. I’ve been listening for about two months now, and your podcast has been incredibly helpful in improving my listening skills. Your teaching style is truly amazing and very motivating. I eagerly await your weekly episodes and listen to them more than once. Thank you so much for all your hard work.