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Questions & Answers
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What is the difference between 'ser' and 'estar'?
Both translate to "to be" in English and I keep picking the wrong one. Is there a rule that actually works, or do you just have to memorise it case by case?
Stuart1
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When do I use 'por' and when do I use 'para'?
I have read the lists of rules and I still get it wrong in conversation. Is there a simpler way to think about it?
Stuart1
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When should I use the present perfect instead of the past simple?
In English, "I have eaten" versus "I ate" — my language does not make this distinction and I never know which one a native speaker would choose.
Stuart1
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How do I stop translating in my head before I speak?
I build the sentence in my own language first, then translate it, and by the time I am ready the conversation has moved on. How do people get past this?
Stuart1
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How can I practise speaking if I have nobody to talk to?
I can read and listen fine, but I have no one around me who speaks the language. What actually works when you are on your own?
Stuart1
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What is the best way to learn vocabulary so that it actually sticks?
I learn 20 words, and a week later I remember about three of them. What are teachers actually recommending here?
Stuart1
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How should I prepare for the IELTS speaking test?
I have about two months. What should I actually practise, and what do examiners look for that candidates usually miss?
Stuart1
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When do I need the subjunctive in Spanish?
I understand it exists and I can conjugate it, but in real conversation I never notice the moment where it is required.
Stuart1
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What mistakes do Spanish speakers most often make in English?
I would like to know what gives me away as a Spanish speaker so I can work on those specifically.
Stuart1
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How many hours a week do I need to actually make progress?
I can manage maybe 20 minutes a day. Is that enough to get anywhere, or am I fooling myself?
Stuart