How to Learn English from Scratch?

How to Start Learning English from Zero

Many learners aim to enhance their English without assessing their current level. Often, they overlook the value of recognizing weak areas—an essential step to optimize time and effort.

Understanding how to learn English and identifying your motivation are crucial in selecting the right study tools.

For absolute beginners, the first step is recognizing the different English proficiency levels and the skills needed at each stage. This helps prioritize foundational tasks before tackling advanced material.

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) provides a structured approach, categorizing proficiency into six levels with defined competencies.

CEFR Breakdown

Level	Key Skills
A1 (Beginner)	Basic greetings, self-introduction, simple expressions, and everyday needs (e.g., shopping, travel).
A2 (Elementary)	Understanding simple sentences, using basic tenses, and writing short phrases.
B1 (Intermediate)	Reading short texts, writing coherent paragraphs, and discussing experiences.
B2 (Upper Intermediate)	Complex sentence usage, fluent conversations, and detailed writing on diverse topics.
C1 (Advanced)	Mastering academic/professional language, comprehending complex texts, and writing elaborately.
C2 (Proficient)	Near-native fluency in comprehension, speech, and writing.

Beginner’s Roadmap

Learning English demands dedication, especially at the start. Here’s how to stay on track:

Define Your Purpose: Ask: Why am I learning English? Keep this goal visible to combat demotivation.
Structured Planning: Create a weekly schedule with tasks like vocabulary drills, listening exercises (e.g., podcasts), and writing practice. Track progress daily.
Select Resources: Opt for language schools if you prefer guided learning, or use online tools (apps, e-books, videos) for self-study.

Foundational Steps

Alphabet & Numbers: Practice writing and pronunciation using digital tools.
Grammar Basics: Learn sentence structure (verbs, nouns, prepositions) and core tenses.
Personal Vocabulary Journal: Document and review new words daily.
Reading Habit: Start with beginner-friendly books or news articles to build fluency.

Advancing with Professional Help

If self-study plateaus, consider accredited language institutes. Academic advisors can assist with admissions, visas, and housing for overseas programs.