Language is an extremely powerful thing. Every time you learn a new language, you remove barriers between yourself and the rest of the world. You open doors to new experiences. You create the opportunity to make new friends in other cultures and countries. You might even open the door to your future spouse or partner. Learning a new language is a fantastic goal. But learning a language takes time, dedication, and hard work. As you embark upon this journey, know that there are a lot of valuable resources to help you succeed. Many of them are readily available at your fingertips as long as you have access to a computer. These eight language apps will assist you as you learn a new language. Some websites offer grammatical and spelling assistance, some help you learn, and some allow language learners like yourself to have fun in your new language. Have fun learning!

8 Language Learning Apps Every Beginner Should Use

1. Language Immersion for Chrome

Immersion programs (programs where learners are taught only in the language they are trying to learn) have been proven to be very effective. But if you’re not quite ready for a full immersion class, you can imitate the experience with Language Immersion for Chrome. Language Immersion is an extension for Chrome that mimics a full immersion experience in a language of your choice. Select one of 64 languages, and Language Immersion will automatically change some of the words on the websites you visit into that language. You choose your level (from novice to fluent), and the extension will replace an appropriate number of words depending on the level of language you are comfortable with.

2. NinjaEssays

Ninja Essays can write articles for you if you are running low on time or would prefer your paper to be written by someone with more expertise. This custom writing service also has a blog that offers helpful writing tips and infographics. You can also use the service for help with editing, proofreading, and formatting essays or articles.

3. Babbel

Babbel is a free website that allows anyone to learn a new language in their spare time. There are fourteen languages from which to choose. You start with a very basic level and move forward slowly as you become more fluent. If you’ve always wanted to learn a new language, but don’t know where to start, start with Babbel. You won’t have to spend a large amount of money to begin, and if it turns out you’d rather learn a different language, you can always start a new one. The platform makes it very easy to get started. You’ll know a few words in just a few minutes. You have nothing to lose!

4. PlagTracker

PlagTracker is a fantastic resource because you can easily scan any document into the website for free, and PlagTracker will point out any instances of plagiarism within the text. You can re-write the sentences as needed. If you’d like to take it a step farther, PlagTracker’s team of professionals will check the text and re-write any plagiarized sentences for you.

5. Memrise

Memrise is a fun website that lets you learn over 200 languages. You can use a computer, iOS device, or Android. You can play interactive games, compete with your friends, and create rich multi-media courses in any subject you want. You can also create personalized flashcards to help you as you study. It’s especially great for people who have a hard time learning languages, because the platform makes you forget you’re learning. You’re just playing games and having fun.

6. Common Errors

This website is for English learners only. It contains a huge list of common errors in English. It includes all parts of speech, common misspellings, improper pronunciations, etc. Even native English speakers trying to learn another language can benefit from this website. The odds are good that you’re making some of these mistakes, regardless of your level of English fluency.

7. Lang-8

Lang-8 is a community built by native language speaker to help people who are learning that language. Lang-8 matches non-native speakers with native speakers so the former can practice their speaking and writing skills, and the latter can volunteer and reach out to others. There are over 90 languages represented on the site, with speakers in more than 190 countries across the world. Language learners can find a language partner who will correct your writing as you chat back and forth. Not only is it a great way to learn, but you might even make a new friend or two. Don’t get started on Lang-8 until you are comfortable with the basics. Otherwise, you won’t be able to chat with your language partner.

8. Pixton

Pixton lets you easily create comics in any language. Use the site to practice your language skills in a fun and creative way. Translate comics form your native language to the language you are learning or vice versa. There are frequent contests and a daily “Top 10” list. You can seek out other users and chat. Discover over a million new comics. It’s a fun way to practice your language skills without getting bored or taking an actual course.Whatever website you decide to use as part of your process, remember that the most important thing is to use your new skills as often as possible. Practice your new language every day, in as many ways as you can think of. Find someone to practice speaking with. Write in your journal every day.While these language apps above focus on helping you improve your writing skills, you can also find other ways to improve your speaking skills. You might be able to find a MeetUp in your area for people learning that language or find a language tutor using Rype. Using even just one of these resources every day will improve your vocabulary and increase your speaking and reading abilities. Before long, you’ll be thinking and speaking in your new language, and you won’t even need to translate first. It’s a thrill to no longer need to translate in your head. I’m excited for your journey. Good luck!