I'm sure practising the writing is a very effective way to learn, but I'm more than a little skeptical when people tell me there's 'only one way to learn'. I've

I'm sure practising the writing is a very effective way to learn, but I'm more than a little skeptical when people tell me there's 'only one way to learn'. I've been at it for two years now. I'm not moving very fast but I've learned about 1,700 words so far and reasonably pleased with my ability to communicate. This is all from self study with flashcards and audio (ChinesePod, Assimil etc) plus a weekly hour and a half with a tutor. Whether I can retain the characters over the long term is another question, especially since my interest is really in speaking and not reading and writing, but so far the flashcards and tv are working well for me.