Learn Portuguese on your own with free tools.

Discover how to learn Portuguese on your own using free tools that are accessible to everyone. Transform your study method and gain independence today for effective and successful learning.

Glaucia Fernandes

1/17/20252 min read

When I started studying English (the second foreign language I learned), I turned to a teacher, as I thought it was essential. But with the change of job, city, etc., I quickly became overwhelmed and could no longer attend my classes. However, I absolutely didn’t want to stop learning and tested different tools to continue my learning.

All the advice I’m going to share below is largely based on my own experience. But I will also recommend other resources I’ve discovered recently 📚✨.

  1. Use learning apps 📱

Apps like Duolingo or Babbel are great if you want to learn at your own pace, without pressure.

Personally, I tested an online course that combined exercises on an app (unfortunately available only for learning English) with live coaching sessions on different topics with an instructor.

It was this experience that inspired me to create my CLUB when I launched GF Writes! 😍

These apps help you structure your learning according to your needs. They are perfect for maintaining consistency and staying motivated.

  1. Watch videos 🎧

I don’t know about you, but I love watching videos on YouTube! 👉 On my YouTube channel, I will soon be offering useful resources to learn Portuguese. Feel free to subscribe to get everything on time!

I recommend the following channels:

  1. Read books and articles in Portuguese out loud 📖

For now, I haven’t launched any fiction stories yet... but it shouldn’t be long! In the meantime, I invite you to take a look at the public library in your neighborhood and explore the “Foreign Novels” section. You might find some hidden gems!

👉 Anyway, here’s an excellent resource I recommend:

Online Brazilian Public Library, filled with interesting books! 📚

⚠️ Important tip: Classify the books according to your level of Portuguese, as these are books intended for natives. If you’re a beginner, start with simpler texts before tackling more complex novels.

👉 Read out loud to improve both your reading comprehension and pronunciation.

  1. Practice with language partners 💬

I personally experimented with language exchanges with natives through the Tandem app. It was a fantastic experience because I got to chat with people I would never have met without this desire to learn a foreign language.

⚠️ Attention: It’s important to follow the rules set by the creators of these apps to avoid running into ill-intentioned people. Make sure to stay within a supportive and serious environment!

👉 Here are other apps to practice with language partners: HelloTalk and Speaky.

Language exchange is an excellent way to practice conversation, ask questions, and correct your mistakes in real-time.

Happy language discovery! 😊