Mandarin Chinese Language Guide: Beginner

"Do Chinese, Japanese, and Koreans use the same characters?", "Why was Peking changed to Beijing?", "How do you know the pronunciation of a character?", "Why are Chinese characters so complicated?", and many more FAQ.

Vocabulary from Integrated Chinese and more

Chart of radicals with the Chinese name and English meaning. The "Practice" section includes predefined HSK vocabulary, character quizzes, flashcards, and the ability to create your own.

Chart of radicals with English meanings

Chart to compare Zhuyin, Wade-Giles, MPS2, Hanyu Pinyin, Yale, and Tongyong Pinyin systems

Character explanations and ancient character images. Etymology assists in remembering characters.

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+Audio & video files

+Audio & video files

FREE for basic services, must pay for additional tools. Internet connection NOT required.
Paid add-ons include an integrated Chinese dictionary, document reader, flashcard system with full-screen handwriting input, and live camera-based character recognition.

Collection of comics (Chinese & English)

Level 1, Part 1 & 2

Level 1 & Level 2

Easy-to-use guide to pronunciation with audio; includes very important exception rules for tones

List of pinyin with audio

Animated stories and songs for learners

Very entertaining Youtube video for beginners to learn basic Chinese in context

Youtube channel for casual Chinese lessons (with level often marked in video titles)

In Deep Films creates many independent travel documentaries that are raw, in the moment, and adventurous. Having lived in Qingdao and spoken Mandarin Chinese for many years, they have many films on China (among other countries) that provide an inside look as if you are traveling along and getting into trouble with them.

Search for Chinese TV shows and movies depending on your interests. You can also search for American movies with Chinese subtitles but be aware that the translations may not always be correct.

And more introductory HSK information

Vocabulary lists, character quizzes, and flashcards for different HSK levels. Use predefined levels or create your own.

HSK practice test books and audio are essential for preparing to take the HSK.

Taking training courses to pass the HSK is recommended, if not necessary. There are many HSK training schools available in China. If you have the opportunity to study abroad, Beijing Global Village School is a great training school and they can issue student visas, as well.

Available on both Intermediate and Advanced pages. Although these tips are given with upper-level HSK test-taking in mind, they may be helpful for beginners.