Expressing your thoughts in English is hard enough. Doing it in a second language is even harder. For those of you learning to write in French, here are some ideas to help you along.
Getting Started
Some language software have writing modules included. Use them to help you. Most of the time, they’re excellent beginner resources.
Anyone looking to learn to write in any language should work to write as much as they can. The same holds true when learning to compose words in French. Use as basic a construction as you can manage if you must – just write as often as your time will allow.
Similarly, writing skills tend to advance with your reading level. Partaking in more French-language material should definitely be in your list of things to do.
During Writing
As much as possible, learn to think in French when you’re writing in French. Translating your thoughts from English to French just doesn’t work very well. It also delays your development in the language. It’s better to make do with what you can using your caveman-level French than to go for a translation.
Some General Tips For Good French Writing
- Avoid general words, such as tres or choses.
- Always maintain the subject/verb agreement. It’s even more important in French where gender plays a big part in the language.
- Your adjectives should agree with your nouns, both in gender and number.
- Avoid the passive voice. As with good English writers, French writers also avoid this structure.
- Use transitional words to add depth to your sentences.
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