I suggest you take a similar route to what I am currently doing. I made many mistakes while trying to figure out how to learn Mandarin Chinese online in the beginning.
While many people suggest learning systems and apps, I DO NOT.
No automated or electronic system can act as a substitute for a live human that will immediately correct grammar, tone, and pronunciation mistakes for you on the spot.
Sure, use them as supplemental tools to aid in retaining information and reviewing vocabulary but I wouldn’t rely on them to improve your speaking ability by any means.
The best way to learn with a teacher is to first choose what path you want to take. If you want to study for HSK exams then sign up for the exam prep course.
Choosing a very specific course with a Chinese teacher is a sure-fire way to help you get a goal and stay on track.
I went down the confusing and frustrating path of self-study. Please don’t do what I did. it includes side effects such as:
- hair pulling
- nail biting
- tears
- smeared mascara
- reduced first language vocabulary to “What??” and “That doesn’t make sense!”
Do yourself a favor and don’t struggle through pre-made programs like Rosetta Stone and the like.
After enough time with my online teacher, I felt confident enough to go to school in China. I have a link in my bio with my teacher to help others with their Chinese language journey.
As for tips for learning online:
-start by choosing your primary source of education. Your study method should include all of the skills (speaking, listening, reading, and writing). And for sure start speaking ASAP. Once I got my teacher she had me speaking from day 1.
-next gather a few supplementary resources that will boost what you already studied with your teacher. They usually provide useful worksheets or homework though.
-surround you daily life with reminders of the language. This includes music, movies, comics, blogs, and podcasts.
There is no shortage of material online. The challenge lies in sifting through it all and only choosing the ones that will serve your goals. It’s can definitely become an overwhelming task. Thank goodness for online teachers, am I right?