This book has been well-received in the field of Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language both home and abroad since its publication in 2002. It is adopted as textbook by the College of Intensive Chinese Training of Beijing Language and Culture University and many other universities and self-taught learners inside and outside China.

The 2008 Edition maintains the general structure and basic characteristics of the 2002 edition, but has made large revision and supplement to the content. The book has been enlarged from 14 lessons in one volume to 29 lessons in two volumes. The teaching level has changed from quasi intermediate to intermediate and the teaching schedule has been lengthened to one year from half a year.

This is volume 1 of Shortcut—Intermediate Chinese Crash Course. It includes 15 lessons, each of which is composed of main text, new words with English translation, key words illustration, exercises and subtext with new words and exercises. Altogether there are 4 units. After each unit, there are comprehensive exercises for reinforcing the key words and their usages. Each lesson can be taught in 6-8 class hours. Plus the speaking, listening and reading courses, it can be taught within 15-20 weeks.