The good news? Yes, it’s absolutely possible to learn French on your own. The bad news? At some point, you’ll end up talking to your dog in French, sticking Post-it notes all over your apartment, and shouting at irregular verbs that refuse to cooperate. But if you do it right, it’s worth every awkward moment.

This guide will walk you through how to learn French, without wasting time or money, and with your sanity intact. We’ll look at your goals, your budget, your time, and help you find what actually works for you.