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Learning Arabic can be an exceptionally challenging experience — especially when it comes to pronunciation and vocabulary retention. With that said, Arabic is the fifth most widely spoken language in the world, and learning it is definitely a skill worth having if you plan on traveling to the Arab world or interacting with Arab people in your own nation.

But how can learning Arabic be made easier and more efficient? We all know the standard advice: make flashcards, carry a pocket dictionary, underline words you don’t know, etc. These are certainly helpful tips, but there are actually several other special secrets that are uniquely beneficial when it comes to grasping Arabic.

1. Get as much exposure as possible.

First, immersion is key, so be around the language as often as you can. When you’re just starting out, put on a film or television show in Arabic, and use English subtitles. You can also do the reverse and watch in English while reading the Arabic in subtitle form. As you improve, try a simple TV show that has Arabic sound and Arabic subtitles.

Likewise, try reading text in Arabic while listening to it read out loud in English or Arabic. Whether it’s radio, TV, podcasts, or even music, the goal here is to get as much exposure as possible.

Naturally, this means that you should seek out native speakers as well. Having conversations with people who know how to perfectly pronounce the complicated Arabic vocabulary will help you immensely. Likewise, you’ll get a chance to come up with your own speech and be helped and corrected when necessary.

2. Notice what is happening in the language.

This is essential. Whether or not you take the time to notice and make connections within the language will make or break your success. This skill divides people who are good at language learning and those who aren’t.

Noticing in language learning essentially means seeking out patterns. Naturally, you need to use the first “secret” before you can start noticing: you can’t notice if you haven’t experienced it, so get a lot of exposure.

But as you continue listening, reading, watching, and speaking, begin to allow your brain to see connections and patterns as well. Perhaps you consistently see one word. Underline it. Perhaps you consistently hear one sound or pronunciation. Find out what the word or phrase is, and write it in your notebook. Practice mimicking what you hear and saying it aloud to yourself.

Doing this doesn’t require that you understand everything. You simply need to pay attention enough to see repetitions and patterns. In this way, you’ll also be cultivating your determination and will to learn the language. Be dedicated, and want to notice.

3. Put the focus on vocabulary.

As you begin your studies, remember that learning vocabulary will be much more important than learning the rules of grammar. It’s not that grammar isn’t important; it’s simply that you can’t say anything if you don’t have an arsenal of words to use. Try to learn the vocab naturally at first, and the grammar will gradually come after. Reviewing grammar is good at times, but just remember that the words themselves should always come first.

The key here is to learn the vocabulary words in context instead of individually. See where the word occurs naturally and try to remember it in that context. If and when you see the same word within a different framework, notice and remember it in that context as well.

4. Get professional help at a language school.

Learning Arabic on your own is a great place to start, but online lessons and your dictionary can only take you so far. A professional language school such as London Arabic will give you access to experienced native speakers from various parts of the Arab world that have been trained to teach the language to non-speakers. Attending courses enables you to have lessons personalised to your learning level, and you’ll be exposed to methods of learning that engage your senses and help you learn faster and more efficiently.

These four language-learning secrets will help you tremendously on your path to learning Arabic. They will motivate your advancement in the language and help you retain what you learn more readily. Do your best to follow them as you study, and don’t forget to seek out a language school near you for more thorough training and instruction.