How do you learn a language?

It may depend on how committed you are to the language but if you can't afford a course then maybe look for textbooks commonly used for language courses and study them on your free time. For example, take a notebook, follow the textbook and take notes like you would do for any language class. There's this one youtube channel called Easy German that interviews german people and asks everyday questions. Its quite entertaining but it might slow down your progress if you purely depend on those videos. So I'd recommend a mix of the two. And some classic tips like practicing everyday, even if its just writing a single phrase on a journal.  Idk if you've had any previous experience in language learning but yeah, just approach it like you would for spanish class for example. A fun one (although not very convensional) is to put sticky notes around your house to name the objects in german, so everytime you look at it you remember the word and instantly associate it with a physical object.

Sorry if you were looking for specific websites or resources, I don't know any :(

But hopefully any of that sounds useful! Just remember to have fun with it ^u^

I also recommend trying to find entry/beginner level textbooks, I find that doing an exercise a day can be super helpful in building up language skills! I also find writing the language by hand the most helpful! 

My personal favorite way to learn a new language is to use that language for watching shows with English subtitles. It helps you become more accustomed to the language patterns and can help with word association, especially if it's a piece of media you know well and are rewatching! Similarly, I like to listen to music in that language. 

As far as alternative apps go, I don't have any recs because I feel like they aren't usually very effective. Overall, the best way to learn a language is to write it by hand and listen to it in realistic conversation! 

a little bit, frequently, will always be better than a lot, all at once.

you need to find a system that is engaging, that you can pursue regularly (preferably daily, or near daily).

these days i read a book in my target language (also German) and listen to the audiobook at the same time. i go through and mine words and phrases, repeating sections until i understand the flow and meaning behind it.

i found this method was easiest with something more child-friendly and familiar. i ended up using the harry potter books to start.

and i know its dreaded, but flashcards to drill in new words and practicing with verb tables makes all the difference in the world.