Passing A2 Exams in 45 Days

[u/iamcode101]

I came across this blog post: How I Passed My Dutch A2 Exams in 45 Days: A Guide for Busy Professionals I am curious if anyone thinks this is really realistic and possible. The writer claims to have been here for six years but "knew only few dutch words (maybe 3,4) before the preparation." While I suspect they actually knew more words than this, I am curious if it is it really possible to go from 0 to A2 in 45 days.

I have been doing Duolingo for 574 days now, with some previous starts and stops before my current run. Currently I think I will do fine at the Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNM) exam, probably OK in reading, and just OK enough in listening. Writing and speaking are the ones I am most stressed about, especially the speaking one. I do plan to do each test on different days/weeks to make preparation easier.

My work really wants me to have this all done by the end of the year, so today is the start of my knuckle down time.

Any suggestions or words of encouragement are appreciated. :-)

Fun note: I previously tried playing Dutch language lessons on repeat while I slept, or at least tried to sleep. I really cannot recommend this method. I remember *alsjeblieft* appearing in one of my dreams, but otherwise I don't think it had any lasting impact.

[u/chardrizard]

If you study specifically in format given, it’s quite easy IMO. Speaking and writing is definitely the hardest to practice by yourself.

I’d go for intensive 1-2 weeks course to cram it in or inburgering specific cursus.

Mistake I did was I was making too complex of a sentence bc that’s how I’d reply in english, I’d focus on easy simple sentences but complete which I believe is the focus in grading.

I didn’t need to sound smart, I can just ‘look at cats’, ‘go to supermarket’ or ‘read a book at a park’.

[u/GreenieSD]

I took 2 intensive courses, A1 and A2 back to back. Then took another 2 weeks to review and let the lessons soak in. I took my test and passed, I know that others in my classes did the same. It is possible but you have to commit. I was in NL for 3 years when I did this. I can passably speak and interact with other Dutch people but at a very superficial level. I do recommend taking intensive courses if you can since it doesn't allow your brain to adapt in your native language during that time.

[u/Material_Ad_7277]

Oh, I thought I am the only one who spent 1.2 years learning Dutch and barely passed exams. The other folks I saw spent about 6 months at least. 45 days is quite a stretch

[u/iamcode101 → u/Material_Ad_7277]

I think my one big mistake was that I often did my Duolingo lessons on the bus or train, so would click the "I can't talk now" option. Which might explain why I am so much better at reading than at speaking. :-D