[usaar333]

One problem with comprehensible input methods (like what Rosetta Stone does?) is that it can be extremely boring as an adult and ultimately demotivating.

Studying grammar can be fun - and it feels like an accomplishment to be able to say some pretty complex things in Chinese.

Sure my listening isn't that great.. but on the other hand being limited to a two year old's conversation ability isn't particularly enticing.

Also, fwiw, reading and listening is a way different skill... Thanks to the ability to rewind when reading

[bayesian_horse]

In my opinion it takes years to be able to comprehend random sentences uttered by native speakers, in pretty much any language. It just takes a brain that amount of time to short-cut and organize all the information in an efficient enough manner.