Intended as a guide for learners of a second language, the book suggests creative, positive steps the individual learner can take to improve his chances of success. The first chapter looks at what is involved in learning a second language and suggests that the individual can take control of the learning process. The second and third chapters explore what the language learner can gain from the experience of the infant and child learning to talk. Chapter four examines how knowledge about human learning processes can aid in second language learning, and chapter five looks at the function of cognitive style in learning. In chapter six, the role of self-confidence and motivation are considered. Interaction of language and culture learning is considered in chapter seven, and the important and necessary process of making and correcting mistakes is discussed in chapter eight. The two final chapters focus on taking control of learning by choosing from among different instructional approaches and available courses and by self-testing for cognitive style and preference. A twelve-step program for better language learning is presented in the final chapter. Contents are indexed. (MSE)