Hacking Chinese Podcast

Episodios

• 305 - When spaced repetition fails, and what to do about it 07.06.2026 13m

  Spaced repetition software is designed to delay reviews as long as possible without letting you forget. For learning Chinese, though, barely remembering something is not enough.#learnchinese #vocabulary #srs #flashcardsLink to the article this podcast episode is based on: When spaced repetition fails, and what to do about it: https://www.hackingchinese.com/when-spaced-repetition-fails-and-what-to-do-about-it/Which words you should learn and where to find them: https://www.hackingchinese.com/which-words-you-should-learn-in-and-where-to-find-themChinese listening strategies: Improving listening speed: https://www.hackingchinese.com/listening-strategies-improving-listening-speedThe most common Chinese words, characters and components: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-most-common-chinese-words-characters-and-components-for-language-learners-and-teachersSpaced repetition software and why you should use it: https://www.hackingchinese.com/an-introduction-to-spaced-repetition-softwareAn introduction to extensive reading for Chinese learners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/introduction-extensive-reading-chinese-learnersFree and easy audio flashcards for Chinese dictation practice with Anki: https://www.hackingchinese.com/free-and-easy-audio-flashcards-for-chinese-dictation-practice-with-ankiIs your flashcard deck too big for your own good? https://www.hackingchinese.com/is-your-flashcard-deck-too-big-for-your-own-goodMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0
• 304 - How to make Chinese easier by using mnemonics and memory techniques 31.05.2026 12m

  Mnemonics are clever memory techniques that can be used to memorise everything from decks of cards to speeches, but how do you use them to learn Chinese?#learnchinese #mnemonics #memory #vocabularyLink to article: How to make Chinese easier by using mnemonics and memory techniques: https://www.hackingchinese.com/memory-aids-and-mnemonics-to-enhance-learning/Remembering is a skill you can learn: https://www.hackingchinese.com/remembering-is-a-skill-you-can-learnChinese characters, ideograms and words: a beginner's guide: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-building-blocks-of-chinese-part-1-chinese-characters-and-words-in-a-nutshell5 levels of understanding Chinese characters: superficial forms to deep structure: https://www.hackingchinese.com/5-levels-of-understanding-chinese-characters-superficial-forms-to-deep-structureDon't use mnemonics for everything: https://www.hackingchinese.com/dont-use-mnemonics-for-everythingShapeshifting Chinese characters: https://www.hackingchinese.com/shapeshifting-chinese-charactersMemory aids and mnemonics to enhance learning: https://www.hackingchinese.com/memory-aids-and-mnemonics-to-enhance-learningExtending mnemonics inspiration and insights: https://www.hackingchinese.com/extending-mnemonics-inspiration-and-insightsAre mnemonics too slow for Chinese learners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/are-mnemonics-too-slow-for-chinese-learnersHow to create mnemonics for general or abstract character components: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-create-mnemonics-for-general-or-abstract-character-componentsKilling leeches: https://www.hackingchinese.com/killing-leechesCultivate your Chinese flashcard garden or burn it down and start afresh: https://www.hackingchinese.com/cultivate-your-chinese-flashcard-garden-or-burn-it-down-and-start-afreshMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 303 - Learn Chinese by playing Chinese chess (象棋, xiàngqí) 24.05.2026 9m

  Chinese chess, or 象棋 (xiàngqí), is more than a classic strategy game. It’s a fun, practical way into Chinese language and culture.#learnchinese #xiangqi #chinesechessLink to article: Learn Chinese by playing Chinese chess (象棋, xiàngqí): https://www.hackingchinese.com/learn-chinese-by-playing-chinese-chess-xiangqi/Learn Chinese by playing Mahjong 麻將 (májiàng): https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-chinese-by-playing-mahjong-%e9%ba%bb%e5%b0%87-majiang/Pieces and how they move (in Chinese): https://www.zh.xiangqi.com/pieces-and-moves10 ways of using games to learn and teach Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/10-ways-using-games-learn-teach-chineseMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 302 - The best podcasts for learning Chinese in 2026 17.05.2026 18m

  Podcasts let you create your own Chinese immersion experience, with level-appropriate stories and authentic conversations. Learn flexibly on the go with the best podcasts for beginners, intermediate and advanced students!#learnchinese #podcasts #listening #beginner #intermediate #advanced Link to article: The best podcasts for learning Chinese in 2026: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-best-podcasts-for-learning-chinese/Is speaking more important than listening when learning Chinese? https://www.hackingchinese.com/is-speaking-more-important-than-listening-when-learning-chinese/Learning Chinese through comprehensible input: https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-chinese-comprehensible-input/Learning Chinese through audiobooks: https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-chinese-through-audio-books/The best free Chinese listening practice for all levels: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-10-best-free-chinese-listening-resources-for-beginner-intermediate-and-advanced-learners/Beginner Chinese listening practice: What to listen to and how: https://www.hackingchinese.com/beginner-chinese-listening-practice-what-to-listen-to-and-how/Beyond tīng bu dǒng, part 1: A guide to Chinese listening comprehension: https://www.hackingchinese.com/beyond-ting-bu-dong-part-1-a-guide-to-chinese-listening-comprehension/Make sure listening isn't a practical problem: https://www.hackingchinese.com/make-sure-that-listening-is-not-a-practical-problem/Listen more than once: How the replay button can help you learn more Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/listen-more-than-once-how-the-replay-button-can-help-you-learn-more-chineseMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 301 - Effective progress or experience points? The double-edged sword of measuring your Chinese learning 11.05.2026 12m

  Measuring your Chinese progress is a double-edged sword: it can keep you motivated, but it can also tempt you to chase numbers that don’t reflect real progress.#learnchinese #progress #motivation #measure #benchmarkLink to article on Hacking Chinese: Effective progress or experience points? The double-edged sword of measuring your Chinese learning: https://www.hackingchinese.com/measurable-progress-is-a-double-edged-sword/Benchmarking progress in Chinese to stay motivated: https://www.hackingchinese.com/benchmarking-progressHow to get past the intermediate Chinese learning plateau: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-get-past-the-intermediate-chinese-learning-plateau6 benefits of learning Chinese through sports: https://www.hackingchinese.com/practising-sports-to-learn-chineseSpaced repetition software: What it is and how to use it to learn Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/an-introduction-to-spaced-repetition-softwareDuolingo CEO Luis von Ahn wants you addicted to learning: https://www.theverge.com/24267841/luis-von-ahn-duolingo-owl-language-learning-gamification-generative-ai-android-decoderThe importance of counting what counts when learning Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/about-the-importance-of-coutning-what-countsUsing HSK as a roadmap to learning Chinese: Pros and cons: https://www.hackingchinese.com/using-the-hsk-as-a-roadmap-to-learning-chineseThe CEFR Levels: https://www.coe.int/en/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages/level-descriptionsCEFR self-assessment grid: https://rm.coe.int/CoERMPublicCommonSearchServices/DisplayDCTMContent?documentId=090000168045bb52CEFR companion volume: https://www.coe.int/en/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages/cefr-companion-volume-and-its-language-versions6 challenges students face when learning to read Chinese and how to overcome them: https://www.hackingchinese.com/6-challenges-students-face-when-learning-to-read-chinese-and-how-to-overcome-themSeeing through the illusion of advanced Chinese learning: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-illusion-of-advanced-learning-and-what-to-do-about-itHow long have you studied Chinese? 290 years or 58 992 hours! https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-long-have-you-studied-chinese-290-years-or-58-992-hoursApproaches to reading in Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/approaches-to-reading-in-chineseMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 300 - Why learning Chinese pronunciation by using English words is a really bad idea 04.05.2026 16m

  Learning Mandarin pronunciation is not easy, so some people try to use English words to learn or teach the sounds. This is a really bad idea.#learnchinese #pronunciation #english #soundsLink to article on Hacking Chinese: Why learning Chinese pronunciation by using English words is a really bad idea: https://www.hackingchinese.com/why-learning-chinese-pronunciation-by-using-english-words-is-a-really-bad-ideaHacking Chinese Pronunciation: Speaking with Confidence: https://www.hackingchinese.com/courses/mandarin-chinese-pronunciation-course/Learning to hear the sounds and tones in Mandarin: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-learn-to-hear-the-sounds-tones-in-mandarinLearning to pronounce Mandarin with Pinyin, Zhuyin and IPA: Part 3: https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-to-pronounce-mandarin-with-pinyin-zhuyin-and-ipa-part-3A guide to Pinyin traps and pitfalls: Learning Mandarin pronunciation: https://www.hackingchinese.com/a-guide-to-pinyin-traps-and-pitfallsImproving your Chinese pronunciation by mimicking native speakers: https://www.hackingchinese.com/mimicking-native-speakers-way-learning-chineseHow learning some basic theory can improve your Mandarin pronunciation: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-learning-some-basic-theory-can-improve-your-pronunciation24 great resources for improving your Mandarin pronunciation: https://www.hackingchinese.com/24-great-resources-for-improving-your-mandarin-pronunciationMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 299 - How to not memorise Chinese characters: The anatomy of bad mnemonics 27.04.2026 16m

  Mnemonics are clever memory techniques that help you remember everything from PIN codes to Chinese characters. Good mnemonics make learning easier, but bad ones can distract you or even hold you back.#learnchinese #characters #hanzi #mnemonics #memory #vocabularyLink to article on Hacking Chinese: How to not memorise Chinese characters: The anatomy of bad mnemonics: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-not-memorise-chinese-characters-the-anatomy-of-bad-mnemonics/Remembering is a skill you can learn: https://www.hackingchinese.com/remembering-is-a-skill-you-can-learnThe building blocks of Chinese, part 4: Learning and remembering compound characters: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-building-blocks-of-chinese-part-4-learning-and-remembering-compound-charactersDon’t use mnemonics for everything: https://www.hackingchinese.com/dont-use-mnemonics-for-everythingMemory aids and mnemonics to enhance learning: https://www.hackingchinese.com/memory-aids-and-mnemonics-to-enhance-learningExtending mnemonics: Inspiration and insights: https://www.hackingchinese.com/extending-mnemonics-inspiration-and-insights5 levels of understanding Chinese characters: Superficial forms to deep structure: https://www.hackingchinese.com/5-levels-of-understanding-chinese-characters-superficial-forms-to-deep-structureLearning Chinese characters through pictures: https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-chinese-characters-through-picturesLearn to read Chinese with ease? https://www.hackingchinese.com/learn-to-read-chinese-with-easeWhy you should think of characters in terms of functional components: https://www.hackingchinese.com/why-you-should-think-of-characters-in-terms-of-functional-componentsHow to learn Zhuyin (Bopomofo) in two hours: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-learn-zhuyin-bopomofo-in-two-hoursMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 298 - The best time to start learning Chinese is now: A guide for expats 20.04.2026 14m

  The best time to start learning Chinese might be behind you, but the second-best time is now. If you’ve been surrounded by Mandarin for years and keep putting off learning the language, this guide is for you!#learnchinese #expat #china #bubble #immersionLink to article on Hacking Chinese: The best time to start learning Chinese is now: A guide for expats: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-best-time-to-start-learning-chinese-is-now-a-guide-for-expats/You won't learn Chinese simply by living abroad: https://www.hackingchinese.com/you-wont-learn-chinese-simply-by-living-abroadLearning Chinese through comprehensible input: https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-chinese-comprehensible-inputHabit hacking for language learners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/habit-hacking-for-language-learnersThe 10 best free Chinese listening resources for beginner, intermediate and advanced learners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-10-best-free-chinese-listening-resources-for-beginner-intermediate-and-advanced-learnersThe 10 best free Chinese reading resources for beginner, intermediate and advanced learners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/10-best-free-chinese-reading-resources-beginner-intermediate-advanced/Beginner Chinese listening practice what to listen to and how: https://www.hackingchinese.com/beginner-chinese-listening-practice-what-to-listen-to-and-howChinese reading practice for beginners: 7 resources to improve your Mandarin: https://www.hackingchinese.com/best-chinese-reading-practice-for-beginnersYou shouldn't walk the road to Chinese fluency alone: https://www.hackingchinese.com/you-shouldnt-walk-the-road-to-chinese-fluency-aloneHow to get the most out of your Chinese tutoring sessions: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-your-chinese-tutoring-sessions7 characteristics of a great Chinese tutor or private teacher: https://www.hackingchinese.com/characteristics-of-a-great-chinese-tutor-or-private-teacherHow to find the perfect Mandarin tutor for you: A complete guide: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-find-the-perfect-mandarin-tutor-for-you-a-complete-guideHow to learn Chinese in the long term with intrinsic motivation: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-learn-chinese-in-the-long-term-with-intrinsic-motivationA practical guide to your ideal Mandarin self: Build motivation that lasts: https://www.hackingchinese.com/a-practical-guide-to-your-ideal-mandarin-self-build-motivation-that-lastsThe forking path: A human approach to learning Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-forking-path-a-human-approach-to-learning-chineseMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 297 - Improve your Chinese conversations by listening to the listener 13.04.2026 13m

  The obvious way to learn Mandarin is to listen to a person speaking the language. The less obvious way is to listen to the person who isn’t speaking in a conversation. What can you learn by listening to the listener?#learnchinese #listening #conversations #responsesLink to article on Hacking Chinese: Improve your Chinese conversations by listening to the listener: https://www.hackingchinese.com/listening-to-the-listener/Beyond tīng bu dǒng, part 5: Becoming a better listener as a student of Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/beyond-ting-bu-dong-part-5-becoming-a-better-listener-as-a-student-of-chineseHow to improve your Chinese writing ability through focused reading: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-improve-your-chinese-writing-ability-through-focused-readingThe best podcasts for learning Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-best-podcasts-for-learning-chineseImproving your Chinese pronunciation by mimicking native speakers: https://www.hackingchinese.com/mimicking-native-speakers-way-learning-chineseShould you learn Chinese vocabulary from lists? https://www.hackingchinese.com/should-you-learn-chinese-vocabulary-from-listsHow to fake sounding like a native Chinese speaker: https://www.hackingchinese.com/fake-sounding-like-native-chinese-speakerMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 296 - Chinese is fascinating and exciting, not weird and stupid 06.04.2026 12m

  When learning a foreign language, some things might appear weird or even stupid. But does a negative attitude towards Chinese make it harder to learn? And if it does, how can you adopt a more positive approach?#learnchinese #attitude #motivation #stupidLink to article on Hacking Chinese: Chinese is fascinating and exciting, not weird and stupid: https://www.hackingchinese.com/chinese-is-fascinating-and-exciting-not-weird-and-stupid/How to learn Chinese in the long term with intrinsic motivation: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-learn-chinese-in-the-long-term-with-intrinsic-motivationA practical guide to your ideal Mandarin self: Build motivation that lasts: https://www.hackingchinese.com/a-practical-guide-to-your-ideal-mandarin-self-build-motivation-that-lastsHow to learn to hear the sounds and tones in Mandarin:https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-learn-to-hear-the-tones-in-mandarin/The three factors that determine how much Chinese you learn: https://www.hackingchinese.com/three-factors-decide-much-chinese-learn/Have fun learning Chinese or else… https://www.hackingchinese.com/have-fun-or-else/How to learn Chinese characters: My best advice: https://www.hackingchinese.com/my-best-advice-on-how-to-learn-chinese-characters/How to make Chinese easier by using mnemonics and memory techniques: https://www.hackingchinese.com/memory-aids-and-mnemonics-to-enhance-learning/Learning Chinese pronunciation as a beginner: https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-pronunciation-as-a-beginnerUnderstanding regionally accented Mandarin: https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-to-understand-regionally-accented-mandarin/Learning the third tone in  Mandarin: https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-the-third-tone-mandarin-chineseMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 295 - Which Chinese language course should you take? 30.03.2026 13m

  The answer to the question of which Chinese language course you should choose is that it depends. But what does it depend on, and how do you make the right decision about which course to take?#learnchinese #course #class #learningLink to article on Hacking Chinese: Which Chinese language course should you take? https://www.hackingchinese.com/which-chinese-language-course-should-you-take/Take responsibility for your own learning: https://www.hackingchinese.com/take-responsibility-for-your-own-learningUsing Chinese textbooks to improve reading ability: https://www.hackingchinese.com/using-chinese-textbooks-to-improve-reading-abilityThe question you have to ask about your Chinese teacher or course: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-question-you-have-to-ask-about-your-chinese-teacher-or-courseWhy not going to China now could actually be good for your Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/why-not-going-to-china-now-could-actually-be-good-for-your-chineseImmersion at home or why you don't have to go abroad: https://www.hackingchinese.com/immersion-at-home-or-why-you-dont-have-to-go-abroadCharacteristics of a great Chinese tutor or private teacher: https://www.hackingchinese.com/characteristics-of-a-great-chinese-tutor-or-private-teacherMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 294 - The 10 best free Chinese listening resources for beginner, intermediate and advanced learners 23.03.2026 18m

  Listening is the most important skill of all, because it accelerates all other learning and is crucial for social integration. What are the best free Chinese listening resources out there for beginner, intermediate and advanced learners?Link to article: ⁠⁠The 10 best free Chinese listening resources for beginner, intermediate and advanced learners⁠⁠: ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-10-best-free-chinese-listening-resources-for-beginner-intermediate-and-advanced-learners/⁠⁠#learnchinese #listening #resources #beginner #intermediate #advanced 7 ideas for smooth and effortless Chinese listening practice: ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/make-sure-that-listening-is-not-a-practical-problem/⁠⁠The 10 best free Chinese reading resources for beginner, intermediate and advanced learners: ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/10-best-free-chinese-reading-resources-beginner-intermediate-advanced/⁠⁠Is speaking more important than listening when learning Chinese? ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/is-speaking-more-important-than-listening-when-learning-chinese/⁠⁠Three factors that decide how much Chinese you learn: ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/three-factors-decide-much-chinese-learn/⁠⁠Learning Chinese through comprehensible input: ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-chinese-comprehensible-input/⁠⁠How to become fluent in Chinese: ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-become-fluent-in-chinese/⁠⁠How to adjust your Chinese listening to the right level: ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/adjust-your-listening-practice-to-your-current-state-of-mind/⁠⁠The forking path: A human approach to learning Chinese: ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-forking-path-a-human-approach-to-learning-chinese/⁠⁠The time barrel: How to find more time to study Chinese: ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-time-barrel-you-have-more-time-than-you-think/⁠⁠How to find more time to practise Chinese listening: ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-find-more-time-to-practise-listening/⁠⁠Listen to this and other episodes on your favourite podcasting platform, including Apple Podcasts, Breaker, Google Podcast, Overcast, Pocket Casts, RadioPublic, Spotify and YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com/podcast⁠⁠More information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found over at ⁠⁠https://www.hackingchinese.com⁠⁠Music: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 293 - Remembering is a skill you can learn: Mnemonics for Chinese learners 16.03.2026 15m

  Remembering is not a fixed, innate ability; it's a skill you can learn. In fact, there are many proven and easy ways to improve your memory! #learnchinese #memory #mnemonics #vocabularyLink to article on Hacking Chinese: Remembering is a skill you can learn: Mnemonics for Chinese learners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/remembering-is-a-skill-you-can-learn/Feats of memory anyone can do (Joshua Foer, TED): https://youtu.be/U6PoUg7jXsASecrets of a Mind-Gamer: How I trained my brain and became a world-class memory athlete (Joshua Foer, NY Times): http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2011/02/20/magazine/mind-secrets.htmlMoonwalking with Einstein: The Art and Science of Remembering Everything (Joshua Foer, Amazon): https://amzn.to/460tCFNHow to use mnemonics to learn Mandarin tones and pronunciation: https://www.hackingchinese.com/extending-mnemonics-inspiration-and-insightsThe building blocks of Chinese, part 1: Chinese characters and words in a nutshell: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-building-blocks-of-chinese-part-1-chinese-characters-and-words-in-a-nutshellThe building blocks of Chinese, part 2: Basic characters, components and radicals: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-building-blocks-of-chinese-part-2-basic-characters-components-and-radicalsThe building blocks of Chinese, part 4: Learning and remembering compound characters: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-building-blocks-of-chinese-part-4-learning-and-remembering-compound-charactersThe building blocks of Chinese, part 6: Learning and remembering compound words: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-learn-words-really-fastHow to create mnemonics for general or abstract character components: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-create-mnemonics-for-general-or-abstract-character-componentsAre mnemonics too slow for Chinese learners? https://www.hackingchinese.com/are-mnemonics-too-slow-for-chinese-learnersSpaced repetition software: What it is and how to use it to learn Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/an-introduction-to-spaced-repetition-softwareDon’t use mnemonics for everything when learning Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/dont-use-mnemonics-for-everythingWhat a big Rubik’s Cube taught me about Chinese characters: https://www.hackingchinese.com/what-a-big-rubiks-cube-taught-me-about-chinese-charactersHow to make Chinese easier by using mnemonics and memory techniques: https://www.hackingchinese.com/memory-aids-and-mnemonics-to-enhance-learningMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 292 - A practical guide to your ideal Mandarin self: Build motivation that lasts 09.03.2026 15m

  Motivation is not a personality trait that you either have or lack. It is a system you can design. Picture your future Mandarin self, make study sustainable, and let steady action close the gap.#learnchinese #motivation #l2mss #dörnyeiLink to article on Hacking Chinese: A practical guide to your ideal Mandarin self: Build motivation that lasts: https://www.hackingchinese.com/a-practical-guide-to-your-ideal-mandarin-self-build-motivation-that-lasts/How to learn Chinese in the long term with intrinsic motivation: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-learn-chinese-in-the-long-term-with-intrinsic-motivationLove and language: Challenges and opportunities in learning Chinese with a partner: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-i-learnt-chinese-part-1-why-i-started-learning-chineseHow I learnt Chinese, part 1: Where it all started: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-i-learnt-chinese-part-1-why-i-started-learning-chinese/More information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 291 - Are mnemonics too slow for Chinese learners? 02.03.2026 11m

  Mnemonics are clever memory devices designed to make it easier to remember things, but considering that they take time both to create and retrieve, are they really that useful for learning Chinese?#learnchinese #mnemonics #characters #memory #vocabularyLink to article on Hacking Chinese: Are mnemonics too slow for Chinese learners? https://www.hackingchinese.com/are-mnemonics-too-slow-for-chinese-learners/5 levels of understanding Chinese characters: Superficial forms to deep structure: https://www.hackingchinese.com/5-levels-of-understanding-chinese-characters-superficial-forms-to-deep-structureHow to make Chinese easier by using mnemonics and memory techniques: https://www.hackingchinese.com/memory-aids-and-mnemonics-to-enhance-learningHow to use mnemonics to learn Mandarin tones and pronunciation: https://www.hackingchinese.com/remembering-is-a-skill-you-can-learnYou can’t learn Chinese characters by rote: https://www.hackingchinese.com/you-cant-learn-chinese-characters-by-roteHow to create mnemonics for general or abstract character components: https://www.hackingchinese.com/how-to-create-mnemonics-for-general-or-abstract-character-componentsDon’t use mnemonics for everything when learning Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/dont-use-mnemonics-for-everything4 Types of Mnemonic Devices and How to Use Them: https://www.tckpublishing.com/mnemonic-devicesHacking Chinese: A Practical Guide to Learning Mandarin: https://www.hackingchinese.com/courses/practical-guide-to-learning-mandarinHow to use mnemonics to learn Mandarin tones and pronunciation: https://www.hackingchinese.com/extending-mnemonics-inspiration-and-insightsLearning Chinese words: When quantity beats quality: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-importance-of-knowing-many-wordsMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 290 - Spaced repetition: What it is and how to use it to learn Chinese 23.02.2026 13m

  Are you tired of learning Chinese characters and words only to forget them a day, a week or a month later? What if there were a simple method that would allow you to remember almost everything you learn, and that didn't take too much time and energy to use? There is: spaced repetition!#learnchinese #srs #vocabulary #flashcards #memoryLink to article on Hacking Chinese: Spaced repetition: What it is and how to use it to learn Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/an-introduction-to-spaced-repetition-software/Cramming vs. spaced repetition: When to use which method to learn Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/cramming-vs-spaced-repetition-when-to-use-which-method-to-learn-chinese/The Leitner System: https://subjectguides.york.ac.uk/study-revision/leitner-systemSpaced repetition is not limited to flashcards: https://www.hackingchinese.com/spaced-repetition-not-limited-flashcards/Reading is a lot like spaced repetition, only better: https://www.hackingchinese.com/reading-is-a-lot-like-spaced-repetition-only-better/An introduction to extensive reading for Chinese learners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/introduction-extensive-reading-chinese-learners/Anki, the best of spaced repetition software: https://www.hackingchinese.com/anki-a-friendly-intelligent-spaced-learning-system/Pleco: https://www.pleco.com/Skritter review: Boosting your Chinese character learning: https://www.hackingchinese.com/skritter-chinese-review-boosting-your-character-learning/Should you learn Chinese vocabulary from lists? https://www.hackingchinese.com/should-you-learn-chinese-vocabulary-from-lists/Analyse and balance your Chinese learning with Paul Nation’s four strands: https://www.hackingchinese.com/analyse-and-balance-your-chinese-learning-with-paul-nations-four-strands/Cultivate your Chinese flashcard garden… or burn it down and start afresh: https://www.hackingchinese.com/cultivate-your-chinese-flashcard-garden-or-burn-it-down-and-start-afresh/Measuring your language learning is a double-edged sword: https://www.hackingchinese.com/measurable-progress-is-a-double-edged-sword/More information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 289 - Reader and listener survey + Lunar New Year discount 15.02.2026 5m

  I started Hacking Chinese to help people learn Mandarin, and your feedback is essential, so please fill out my listener survey. Also, to celebrate the Lunar New Year, I'm offering a hefty discount on three of my courses.#learnchinese #cny #discount #courses #surveyHacking Chinese reader and listener survey: https://forms.gle/FNKLcnDbxoBgULpK9Chinese New Year and New Semester Course Discount: https://www.hackingchinese.com/chinese-new-year-and-new-semester-course-discounts/Hacking Chinese Pronunciation: Speaking with Confidence: https://www.hackingchinese.com/courses/mandarin-chinese-pronunciation-course/Unlocking Chinese: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/courses/unlocking-chinese-ultimate-guide-beginner/Hacking Chinese: A Practical Guide to Learning Mandarin: https://www.hackingchinese.com/courses/practical-guide-to-learning-mandarin/The Fluent Listener: Navigating Spoken Mandarin Like a Fish in Water: https://www.hackingchinese.com/courses/the-fluent-listener-navigating-mandarin-like-a-fish-in-water/More information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at: https://www.hackingchinese.com/Music: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 288 - New book: Hacking Chinese: the Dragon Collection 09.02.2026 4m

  I have published a book! It's called Hacking Chinese: the Dragon Collection and contains articles I wrote in 2024, the Year of the Dragon. The articles cover a wide variety of topics, but tones, listening comprehension and motivation are the most prominent.#learnchinese #anthology #hackingchinese #dragonLink to article on Hacking Chinese: New book: Hacking Chinese: the Dragon Collection: https://www.hackingchinese.com/new-book-hacking-chinese-the-dragon-collection/Purchase the book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4aghT6GBest of Hacking Chinese 2024: https://www.hackingchinese.com/best-of-hacking-chinese-2024The Dragon Collection contents with links to articles and podcast episodes: https://www.hackingchinese.com/dragonCourses on Hacking Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/coursesMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 287 - Ep 287 - How to get honest feedback to boost your Chinese speaking and writing 02.02.2026 11m

  Feedback is important for learning, because it can show you how to not use the language and highlight things you hadn't noticed before. But getting honest feedback on your Chinese is harder than you might think.#learnchinese #feedback #correction #speaking #writingLink to article on Hacking Chinese: How to get honest feedback to boost your Chinese speaking and writing: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-art-of-being-corrected/The 10 best free Chinese reading resources for beginner, intermediate and advanced learners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-10-best-free-listening-resource-collections-for-learning-chineseThe 10 best free reading resource collections for learning Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-10-best-free-reading-resource-collections-for-learning-chineseHow to learn from your mistakes and errors when learning Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/about-the-importance-of-separating-various-kinds-of-mistakes16 myths about learning Chinese that are holding you back: https://www.hackingchinese.com/tone-errors-in-mandarin-that-actually-can-cause-confusionTwo reasons why pronunciation matters more than you think: https://www.hackingchinese.com/two-reasons-why-pronunciation-matters-more-than-you-thinkMaking progress in Chinese in spite of praise: https://www.hackingchinese.com/advancing-in-spite-of-praiseMaking mistakes in Chinese is necessary to adjust your mental models: https://www.hackingchinese.com/making-mistakes-and-correcting-modelsChinese listening, fast and slow: Three ways of slowing down Mandarin speech: https://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-the-third-toneA smart method to discover problems with Mandarin sounds and tones: https://www.hackingchinese.com/a-smart-method-to-discover-problems-with-tonesDon’t try to improve everything at once when learning Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/dont-try-to-improve-everything-at-once-limit-your-focusMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)
• 286 - Chinese reading practice for beginners: 7 resources to improve your Mandarin 26.01.2026 17m

  The best way to learn to read Chinese is to read texts you can understand without constantly using a dictionary. As a beginner, those texts aren’t always easy to find, but let’s look at the best reading resources I know for beginners.#learnchinese #beginner #reading #resourcesLink to article on Hacking Chinese:  Chinese reading practice for beginners: 7 resources to improve your Mandarin: https://www.hackingchinese.com/best-chinese-reading-practice-for-beginners/The 10 best free Chinese reading resources for beginner, intermediate and advanced learners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/10-best-free-chinese-reading-resources-beginner-intermediate-advanced6 challenges students face when learning to read Chinese and how to overcome them: https://www.hackingchinese.com/6-challenges-students-face-when-learning-to-read-chinese-and-how-to-overcome-themIntroduction extensive reading chinese learners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/introduction-extensive-reading-chinese-learners8 great ways to scaffold your Chinese listening and reading: https://www.hackingchinese.com/8-great-ways-scaffold-chinese-learningWhy you should use more than one Chinese textbook: https://www.hackingchinese.com/why-you-should-use-more-than-one-chinese-textbookReview: Mandarin Companion: Easy to read novels in Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/review-mandarin-companion-easy-to-read-novels-in-chineseEscape: A text adventure game for Chinese learners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/escape-text-adventure-game-chinese-learnersFree and easy audio flashcards for Chinese dictation practice with Anki: https://www.hackingchinese.com/free-and-easy-audio-flashcards-for-chinese-dictation-practice-with-ankiThe 10 best free Chinese listening resources for beginner, intermediate and advanced learners: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-10-best-free-chinese-listening-resources-for-beginner-intermediate-and-advanced-learners12 ways chatting online will improve your Chinese: https://www.hackingchinese.com/chat-your-way-to-better-chineseThe virtues of language exchanges: https://www.hackingchinese.com/the-virtues-of-language-exchangesBeginner Chinese listening practice: what to listen to and how: https://www.hackingchinese.com/beginner-chinese-listening-practice-what-to-listen-to-and-howMore information and inspiration about learning and teaching Chinese can be found at https://www.hackingchinese.comMusic: "Traxis 1 ~ F. Benjamin" by Traxis, 2020 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0)