Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Thai in Sacramento, CA and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have a few key opportunities for learning Thai interactively in Sacramento, CA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, ask about the centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are cheaper.) Your other resource can be local specialized language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can choose a private Thai tutor in Sacramento, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Sacramento, CA and online Thai tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Thai and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Thai tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Thai course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the price of 45-48 class hours each semester. Language schools and independent Thai tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Thai tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 18 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, ratings and specialization. Customer review average for Thai lessons on Preply is 4.97 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Thai do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared prove your profeciency level. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and tests, so research each program in advance. With personal Thai tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai so hard and are there ways to learn it faster?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Thai. In reality, you can gain basic Thai fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback 5 hours a week you will be able to understand everyday words, be understood when you talk, shop and place orders in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Thai. After attaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Thai tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking Thai?
Some people have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Thai will require at least 600 hours of dedication. The actual range of time can differ a lot depending on your existing level of Thai or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch TV, write by hand and online using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try as many as possible ways to think and speak in Thai out loud. If this is a greater challenge than you had anticipated you can also take conversational Thai classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Thai teacher?
In learning centers, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, always! The largest selection of verified Thai tutors with video profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges schedule classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools typically have shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, allows the flexibility to schedule lessons around your commitments, on weekdays and/or weekends.