Discover your mistakes when learning German and start correcting them today
Learning German can be challenging, especially if you already live in Switzerland and need the language in everyday life. Many learners repeatedly make the same mistakes, which slows down their progress. The good news? These typical mistakes in learning German can be quickly corrected with the right strategies. In this article, we'll show you the five most common stumbling blocks and how you can overcome them.
1. Word order is neglected
One of the most common grammatical errors when learning German concerns word order. In German, the conjugated verb is in second position in the main clause, while in the subordinate clause it moves to the end. Many learners transfer the structure of their native language directly into German – with confusing results.
Incorrect: "I went to the movies yesterday."
Correct: "I went to the movies yesterday."
What you can do right away: Write down three sentences every day and mark the verb position. Pay particular attention to subordinate clauses with "because," "that," or "if." The Learning German word order requires practice, but with conscious attention it will quickly become a habit.
2. Articles are ignored or used incorrectly
Der, die, das – for many, the article system is the biggest challenge when learning German as a foreign language in Switzerland. Without a system, articles are often guessed, which leads to uncertainty.
What you can do right away: NEVER learn new words without articles. Use colors as a memory aid: der (blue), die (red), das (green). Create thematic word lists and group words by article. Apps like Anki can help you consolidate what you've learned.
3. Too much focus on grammar, not enough on speaking
Many learners spend months studying grammar books but don't dare to actually speak. This approach prevents you from improving your improve your German , because language thrives on use.
What you can do right away: Find a tandem partner or take part in conversation classes. Speak aloud to yourself in German—describe what you are doing. Mistakes are not only allowed, they are necessary for the learning process. The more you speak, the more natural the language will become.
4. Irregular verbs are not learned systematically.
"Ich habe gegeht" instead of "Ich bin gegangen" – Learning German Mistakes like this occur because irregular verbs are not practiced enough. These verbs do not follow any fixed rules and must be learned individually.
What you can do right away: Make a list of the 50 most common irregular verbs with all three forms (infinitive, past tense, past participle). Practice five verbs a day in complete sentences. Use them actively in conversation or when writing.
5. Passive learning instead of active application
Many people consume content passively—they read texts, watch videos, listen to podcasts—without actively applying what they have learned. As a result, their knowledge remains superficial and is quickly forgotten.
What you can do right away: Apply the 50/50 rule: 50% input (reading, listening), 50% output (speaking, writing). After each learning block, you should apply what you have learned immediately. Write a short text, talk to yourself, or explain the new grammar topic to someone else.
How we do it at ILS St. Gallen
At ILS St. Gallen, we understand the unique challenges faced by German learners in Switzerland. Our approach combines structured grammar training with intensive language practice. In small groups or one-to-one lessons, we work specifically on your individual weaknesses—from word order and articles to irregular verbs.
Our experienced teachers will help you learn German easily by explaining complex topics in an understandable way and encouraging you to speak from day one. With our proven concept, you will make rapid, visible progress.
Ready to take your German skills to the next level?