When "n" starts a word and the nearest vowel in the word is "a", "o" or "u", pronounce this "n" by spreading the tongue and pressing it against the upper front teeth. Practice this broad "n" sound in: ná, nó, nuair (NOO-ir), nach, nocht.
If "n" begins a word but the nearest vowel is "e" or "i", pronounce the "n" with the tongue tip on the hard rim behind the upper front teeth. You will often hear a faint (y) sound as you continue pronouncing the rest of the word. Practice this sound in: néad (nay*d) or (nyay*d), ní, nead (nyad), neimh (nev), neodrach (NYOH-druhk*).
If the "n" is inside or at the end of a word, pronounce it as you do in English. Practice on: lán, rón, anuas (uh-NOO-uhs), móin (MOH-in), lean (lan), glanaim.
If a double "n" inside a word is near an "e" or "i", pronounce it (ny). Examples: bainne (BAHN-ye), tinneas (TIN-yuhs).
Double "n" at a word end following "i" may get a (n) or (ny) sound, the latter being close to (ng). Examples: linn (lin) or (liny);álainn (AW*-lin) or (AW*-liny). The (ny) sound makes a combination like "álainné" sound (AW*-lin yay*).