Finals map

Build outward

Start with a o e i u ü, then ai ei ao ou, then an en ang eng ong.

Then learn i/u/ü head compounds (ia, iao, ian, iang, iong, ua, uo, uai, uan, uang, üe, üan).

Stability on simple finals makes compounds easier.

Nasal contrasts

an/ang and en/eng need listening practice.

Do not assume English “ng” habits will transfer perfectly—use minimal pairs and models.

ong is common in 中/同/红.

ü finals

ü, üe, üan, ün appear in words like 绿、月、圆、云.

After j q x, spelling hides the dots but the sound remains ü-quality.

Round the lips while keeping a front tongue position.

Word anchors

Attach each new final to a word from your decks.

Example anchors: 好 ao, 点 ian, 家 ia, 会 ui.

Say final alone, then initial+final+tone, then the word.