The Pimsleur Language Series is one of the easiest, most effective ways to learn a new language -- or brush up on a language you know, but haven't used in a while.

All it takes is thirty minutes a day to build essential vocabulary and grammar in the language you choose. Unlike other language courses out there, you immediately learn how to speak in complete, cohesive sentences.

Getting started with the gold standard of foreign language training is simple. Each Pimsleur course (except for Comprehensive levels II and III, or the Plus courses) assumes you're new at the language, and builds your skills from the ground up. No need to worry if you know enough, or studying before you begin.

The Pimsleur Method works best when you can devote half an hour every day to it -- no more, no less. This gives your mind a chance to digest the information overnight, while providing you with the best chance of solidly remembering what you learn over the course of your Pimsleur lessons. Try to make sure the place you study is quiet, and that your mind is alert at the time you study. After that, all you need to do is listen to the instructions.

Each lesson is comprised of 'speak and repeat' segments, where the tutor speaks and pauses. It's important to repeat the phrase spoken, and not just think of the phrase in your head. Speaking the new language aloud won't just help you to remember, it'll also help you become used to foreign pronunciations.

It's okay to listen to a lesson more than once. At the end of most lessons, there's a re-cap of what you learned over the last 30 minutes. If you understood most of it, fantastic! If not, that's okay too -- you just might want to consider listening to that lesson again the next day.

One of the great things about the Pimsleur method is that it's entirely self-contained. There are no other books necessary, no tedious memorization of vocabulary lists. Just 30 minutes a day to learning a new language.

By the way, there are a number of media options for listening to Pimsleur lessons, depending on your preference. There are the standard CD or Cassette binders, with two lessons per tape or disc. There's also the Audiofy Chip format, which puts up to 30 lessons on one SD card (less to carry around, usually more affordable, and compatible with a wide variety of devices).

If you have any questions about the Pimsleur Method, you can always contact the fine folks at Audiofy (+1 (866) 472-8346 or support@audiofy.com ), or call Charles Heinle at the Center for Curriculum Development (+1 (978) 369-7525, ext. 201).