A simple A1 German study stack that doesn’t rely on one app
A lot of beginners ask “what app should I use?”, but I think the better answer is: don’t expect one app to teach you German.
German needs a few separate things:
1. Structure
Use DW Nicos Weg or a proper A1 textbook/course. You need something that introduces grammar in order, otherwise German becomes confusing very quickly.
2. Vocabulary retention
Use a spaced repetition tool so words come back before you forget them.
Good options:
- Anki: most flexible, best if you like building your own cards
- Quizlet: easier, less serious but quick to start
- Wortz - German Vocabulary : good if you’re on iPhone and specifically want German vocabulary with images, pronunciation, der/die/das tips, and spaced repetition already set up
The important rule: never save nouns without the article. Learn “der Hund”, “die Stadt”, “das Haus”, not just “Hund/Stadt/Haus”.
3. Listening
Use Easy German, DW slow news, or Nicos Weg videos. Even if you understand only 20%, your ear needs regular German input.
4. Pronunciation
Use Forvo or the audio inside whatever app you use. Don’t silently memorize words only from text.
5. Output
Once you know basic sentence structure, start writing tiny sentences:
- Ich habe ein Auto.
- Das ist meine Tasche.
- Ich wohne in Berlin.
- Heute lerne ich Deutsch.
You don’t need complex sentences at A1. You need correct simple ones.
A realistic daily routine could be:
20 minutes Nicos Weg / textbook
10 minutes vocab review
10 minutes listening
5 minutes writing 3 simple sentences
That’s much better than jumping between five apps and feeling productive without actually building a base.