Familiarize yourself with the Urdu language and culture. Read English translations of Urdu poems and stories. If one catches your heart, then trying to learn to read it in the original language can be an ongoing inspiration. Follow the news of Pakistan and the Urdu speaking populations around the world. Learning about the people who speak Urdu and the great literary work that has been composed in this language will make it come to life and keep you motivated in your studies.
Learn the Urdu alphabet. Quizlet offers a comprehensive set of Urdu alphabet flash cards you can use to identify the look and pronunciation of the Urdu letters. Use the cards showing both sides at first. As you become familiar with the look and names of the letters, use them showing only the Urdu letter. When you are confidently identifying the letters, try to recreate them on your own.
Build a listening and speaking vocabulary. The Vega Society website has an excellent index of basic expressions and words in Urdu, with pronunciations and Urdu spellings as well as the English translations. Make flash cards of these expressions, and practice saying the words as well as memorizing the meanings and uses. To hear Urdu spoken, listen to the BBC headlines in Urdu. The headlines package is about ten minutes long and is updated three times a day. Listen for words and sounds you have studied in lessons.
Build a written vocabulary. Online flash cards and word games from the Master Any Language website feature simple Urdu vocabulary lessons in many categories. Animals, colors, days of the week and other terms are all featured for English-speaking students. Practice the matching games and flash cards until you can identify the Urdu words and their meanings.
Practice by communicating with native speakers and other students. An online language exchange is a great opportunity to communicate with other Urdu speakers. Online language exchanges connect students with native Urdu speakers who may be practicing their English skills. You can use text chat and voice chat to communicate with your exchange partners. The company My Language Exchange connects students with native speakers and helps facilitate a fruitful experience.