Personal Tips from my studies of Spanish: 1. It is essential that you hear the pronunciation so get a set of audio cds and listen to authentic speakers while you drive, cook, or when you go to bed. 2. Practice speaking aloud to build your confidence. 3. Study verb conjugation beginning with present tense. 4. Do written exercises to help your spelling. 5. Get a good dictionary. 6. Purchase a verb book...the best is 501 Verbs by Barrons.