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Trex
Now that school is winding down for the end of the semester, i can finally put time aside to learn reading and writing cantonese. There are so many charts and flashcards on here, i am a bit overwhelmed.
For anyone who has successfully learned how to read and write using this site, what are some recommendations as to what i should do? Step by step. Are there lesson plans? I don't know where to start since this isn't really formalized language training for me.
If you are starting from the very beginning I would use this site's online tests to build character recognition:
[www.cantonese.sheik.co.uk]
When you feel that you want to learn more you can try this site (a bit more about grammar, along with written Cantonese translations):
[www.freehongkong.net]
If you look for Anki flash cards those are a big help, some packs have 4,000 characters and that will be enough to get you reading a basic Cantonese newspaper. Unfortunately you will have to put in a lot of time and effort because written Cantonese isn't the same as speaking it (especially with newspapers and magazines). Also if you are teaching yourself and expect to be literate in five months it will probably take a lot longer than that.
Sometimes the simple methods like flashcards, watching youtube videos or spending money on a regular Learn Cantonese book can help you more than you might think. I myself can't read that well but I know that it becomes more rewarding with time, you will surprise yourself and enjoy the language more. Reading Cantonese does open new doors, especially in Hong Kong.
Good luck (and don't be afraid to use Cantodict all the time for extra help!).