Most people start learning German in group courses because it feels like the logical choice.

The structured environment and textbook progression create a false sense of security — follow the book, complete the exercises, and you’ll reach your target level.

Reality proves quite different.

The Problems with Traditional Courses

In German courses in Switzerland, teachers often speak exclusively in German — even when explaining grammar to complete beginners.

While immersion works great to deduct rules just from listening and reading, it’s inefficient when explaining rules of the language… while using the language the person barely understands! Even more so if your goal is to pass your Fide exam quickly.

While it might seem cheaper than a private course, it is vastly inefficient, especially that you don’t really get much speaking practice and you spend a lot of time listening to other people who are also struggling and making mistakes.

You are also forced to progress at the pace of the course — too slow for the quick learners and dedicated students, and too fast for ones who have busy schedules or struggle with basics.

It seems like it is a lose-lose solution to learning a language.

A More Effective Approach

Different concepts challenge different learners.

Instead of following a rigid course structure, focus on what you personally find difficult.

Find a tutor on italki.com (15–30CHF/hour — simmilar or cheaper than a course) who can explain concepts clearly in English when needed. Use their expertise to address your specific challenges, and communicate clearly what suits you.

This targeted approach costs less and works better:

• 20 hours of conversation practice (~400–600CHF)
• 3 specialized in person Fide prep sessions (~300 CHF)
• Fide preparation book (~50 CHF)

Between sessions, use free resources like Deutsche Welle’s Nico’s Weg and AI tools like ChatGPT for additional practice and clarification.

What Actually Matters

The Fide exam tests practical communication, not grammar perfection.

Focus on speaking practice and real-life situations. Use teachers and tools to help with specific difficulties, rather than following a one-size-fits-all course.

Remember: The quickest path to passing FIDE is addressing your personal challenges, not completing a textbook.

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Don’t waste time and money on ineffective methods. Download your free chapter today and discover a more efficient way to pass your FIDE exam.