Download a Chinese character language pack if you have trouble reading Chinese characters in Windows. Microsoft provides several language packs on its website. You also will need this language pack if you plan to write Chinese characters in Microsoft Word.
Use an online Chinese learning website such as Arch Chinese. These websites will teach you the basics and will help you develop your Chinese writing skills.
Consult an online Chinese dictionary when you are unsure of a word. For English to Chinese translation, simply type in the English word. When you are unsure of the meaning of a Chinese character, you will need to count the number of brush strokes and identify the radicals, the individual components of each character.
Use a set of online Chinese flashcards, such as the one available at Mandarintools.com. These flashcards usually display a Chinese character, prompting the user to remember the meaning and pronunciation of that character.
Try downloading a Chinese learning app such as Simplified Chinese. Many of these apps take advantage of smartphone touchscreens, allowing users to practice tracing and writing out simplified Chinese characters.