However, I would like to note that if you are serious about learning Thai you should consider studying both courses because as with any language reading and writing skills are wholly integrated with speaking and listening skills - therefore focusing on both can lead to significantly faster results. Moreover, because Thai is a phonetic language, learning to read can expand your range of vocabulary very quickly as you will be able to discern lots of new words (and their meanings from context) everywhere you encounter them in your daily life.