Write down the basic German words that you want to learn. This will give you a foundation for the language and give you simple phrases to practice in your everyday speech. For instance, write down the German words for "yes" and "no" ("Ja" and "Nein"), along with the proper ways to say "thank you" and "you're welcome" -- "Danke" and "Bitte," respectively.
Tell your friends and family about your goal to be fluent in German. Ask them to remind you to speak in German as much as possible to help you practice what you've learned, and to prepare you to study abroad when you've decided to visit Germany.
Learn to count and recite the alphabet in German. When you're familiar with the words that stand for numbers and letters in German, you'll be able to decipher the meaning of certain sentences where the words are included. For instance, by learning how to count from zero to five (null, eins, zwei, drei, vier, funf), then add five new numbers each time you master the previous set.
Visit sites like goethe.de or YouTube.com to watch videos from German music artists. Music is an effective way to become familiar with the German language and will help you to retain the words you've already learned while picking up new phrases. Germany is home to several music genres such as rap or pop, so search for artists like Pur or Die Prinzen, noted rock and pop artists, or rappers such as Massive Tone and Glashaus online to become more accustomed to the music culture.
Visit the Step Into German website to listen to soccer podcasts in German and visit the links to other soccer websites. This is the main sport in the country, so you'll quickly learn the meaning of certain sports phrases by listening to or watching the games online often. This step, in addition learning more numbers and letters to add to your basic list, will increase your comprehension of the German language.
Sign up for a study abroad program (if in school) after you've become more comfortable with German to participate in language immersion. This allows you to travel to Germany and stay in the home of an instructor, where you'll speak German every day. Direct exposure to the culture will teach you a host of new words, make you more proficient in your existing skill level, and give you insight into the proper inflections for verbal speech.
Continue speaking German after you return from German-speaking environments as often as possible to maintain your ability. Or, start writing your journal entries in German each day, or send emails to your friends and loved ones in German to stay on top of your skills.