Use "learn to" to express that someone is acquiring a new skill or behavior. Use "learn how to" to emphasize the process or method by which one acquires the skill or knowledge.
Use "learn to" to express that someone is acquiring a new skill or behavior.
Barbara learned to swim.
We must learn to adapt in a constantly changing environment.
Use "learn how to" to emphasize the process or method by which one acquires the skill or knowledge.
I'd love to learn how to properly cook the traditional sushi rice to perfection.
Many students learn how to write essays in their first year of college.
When teaching and instructions are important, "learn how to" can be more appropriate (e.g., "She'll teach you so that you can learn how to format a document.") When referring to general skills without specifying the method, "learn to" is apt.
Children should learn to read by age seven. (It suggests a general acquisition of ability without diving into methodologies.)
Often, these two structures can be used interchangeably without much difference in meaning. For example, the following sentence works both ways:
David wants to learn to/how to play the piano.
However, the nuances, when understood, allow for richer expression.
They must learn to adapt in a constantly changing environment. (The focus is on acquiring the skill.)
They must learn how to adapt in a constantly changing environment. (The focus is on how to acquire the skill.)
