However much you study, or how much theory you apply, the best way to progress in a language is to practice with native speakers. With this in mind, if you are studying it is well worth downloading the free HelloTalk - an app that puts you in touch with people around the world to chat with in any language you want.

Learn languages and help others learn yours

HelloTalk is an application that is based on collaboration: you find people to chat to in their native language, and sometimes you chat to people in your nation’s tongue. It is basically a virtual language exchange.

Through its search engine HelloTalk finds you partners with a similar interests, with it surfacing relevant information for each user.

Have you already chosen a partner? Then start chatting. The native speaker talks and give you tips to improve your speech and your pronunciation. You can do the same with new friends to help them improve in your languages.

You can chat via text or video calls. You can also send voice messages.

Like Skype but for language learners

HelloTalk closely resembles apps like Skype or WhatsApp in its message format. You have a choice of individual and group chats, similar to those of the most popular chat apps. Voice calls are similarly familiar.

In addition, HelloTalk has options for your conversation partners to correct errors in your texts on the fly. You also have translators and dictionaries that you can use when you do not know how to answer something.

The idea is great, but HelloTalk often fails: dropped called, failed notifications, etc. The developers are constantly working to improve this, but there are still issues.

The cheapest way to practice language

HelloTalk is the perfect way to find someone to practice a language with. Be patient with the apps failures, and get learning.