How to start learning Chinese? Hi, I'm interested in learning Chinese (Mandarin) but I don't know where to begin. What is the best way to start learning it? I have a huge list of basic vocabulary I can learn from, but how do I learn the grammar? I have a Chinese grammar book, but it isn't very useful because it's for intermediate students. Also, what is the best way to memorize the characters? Is it important to learn how to write the characters now, or should I learn how to write when I am more fluent? Thanks, Katie