Who publishes the best tools for learning Chinese on your own?

Question

I want to buy some type of book/cd/software to learn Mandarin Chinese. My focus is to learn conversational Chinese to where I can speak enough to try to converse in China when visiting. I plan to visit often for business in the next 6 months and may even transfer there. I know if I transfer there my speaking ability will increase but I need to learn some good basics now. Does anyone have experience with Rosetta Stone or something similar?

Answer 1

Rosetta Stone is good; I also recommend Pimsleur (all-audio so you can do it in your car if time is scarce and you don't want to sit in front of a computer for hours). However, I'd strongly recommend that you learn by taking a class, rather than trying to learn on your own. Self-study courses are appealing because they're flexible and private, but ultimately language is about communication and you will progress much more quickly if you have a teacher who can correct your mistakes and classmates with whom to practice.

Answer 2

Some people hate Rosetta Stone because it has some really bad pictures and no explanations in English. A friend of mine who learned Mandarin like a native used Pimsleur. A class is good but it depends on your personality. If you have excellent self discipline, CDs are fine. Most people will not have the personal drive to stay with the CDs so classes tend to call them to attention like an alarm clock.

Answer 3

Hi. Very lovely story telling, i like it. I like how you wrote this beautiful poem and made a fantastic picture words for you readers to enjoy, you have a magic touch in writing, and the mood and the setting is awesome. I appreciate your talent and your style . Keep it up.

Answer 4

Took the words right out of my mouth. May I have them back, please - I have a thought I need to finish.