Translation is a very potent but also quite difficult learning technique. Every German learner translates automatically from German into their mother tongue (or another well known to them language). Even if the teacher is only speaking German to them, in their heads they try to make sense of what they hear. That is perfectly normal for adult learners.

As you already translate things into your native language, this step will help you train your translation skill in the other direction: native language > German. There are three kinds of translations:

1. Written translation
2. Oral translation (X2)

Let's start with the calmest one, the written translation. In the next couple of lessons I'll introduce the other types to you and in the future you can choose between them but for now focus on this type please.

Written translation has the advantage that you can compare your work with an original German text and deepen your understanding of the German sentence structures and vocabulary.

Oral translation will help you formulate your thoughts in German. You will hear many people say that translation is bad and that one should start to think in German as soon as possible. That advice is pure nonsense.

Translation is a powerful tool and like good spice, if applied in decent measures, it brings out the good flavor of an already lovely dish. You also can't or let's say shouldn't force yourself to think in German. It will come to you as you proceed with your training. Let it happen. Like the fox in the book The Little Prince by Exupery, German will come to you if you are patient, kind to yourself and persistent.

Remember: 5-6 sentences will fulfill the purpose of this exercise. Do not go into perfection mode here. It would be a waste of your precious time.

Now let's take a look at how to work on your translation skills on the next lesson.