When you set out to learn French online, your goal is probably to become as fluent as possible within a short period of time. There are many programs available, ranging from completely free websites to full programs offering a variety of media. In order to become fluent, you need to pick one that will work well with your individual learning style.

Following is a brief analysis of the three resources most commonly used to teach this language. Which ones will teach you the most in the least amount of time is a matter of learning style for most cases.

Text: the written word can give you some extra texture by teaching brief history of the French people and detailed rules of the language. But, reading words in French and sounding them out is not going to be very beneficial to most people. It's difficult to say the words correctly without hearing them spoken correctly first.

Common text resources include flash cards, workbooks, and e-books.

Spoken Audio: a program that includes audio files of native speakers saying the words or even carrying on conversations with your new words will give more adequate exposure to how the language is supposed to sound. This is important if you are to become fluent yourself.

Video: video is the absolute best type of program you can use. Video files will give you the audio element to ensure you learn to speak the words correctly, but it also gives you hand gestures and body language that will help convey the meaning of what is being discussed. If you can find a program with video elements, it is probably going to be better than most others.

If you want a well rounded program that takes advantage of all resources, look for a program that includes some element of audio, video, and written text resources. How easy it is to learn French online will be determined by your learning style and how heavily your program leans on each of these learning resources.