How I Passed the JLPT N1 in 9 MONTHS

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares a five-step method for efficiently passing the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N1 in a short period. The strategy emphasizes immersion, learning kanji through the RTK method using Anki, reading a Japanese grammar guide for basic understanding, and memorizing JLPT-level vocabulary from jisho.org. The speaker advises against using textbooks and suggests maintaining immersion throughout the study process, which is key to achieving language proficiency and test success.

Takeaways

• 📚 Immersion is crucial from the start of the learning process and should be continuous throughout the preparation for the JLPT N1.
• 🔠 Remembering Kanji (RTK) is essential for understanding the JLPT, as it helps in deciphering the meaning of unknown words.
• 📘 Utilize Anki for memorizing Kanji and vocabulary, setting daily goals and consistently reviewing them.
• 📚 Read 'Taking Guide to Japanese' for a basic understanding of Japanese grammar without the need to memorize or write it down.
• 🔍 Use jisho.org to filter and learn vocabulary by JLPT levels, starting from N5 to N1.
• 📝 Create Anki cards with sentences from Google to understand the context of the vocabulary, and use jisho.org for meanings.
• 🗓 Plan a study schedule based on the time available and the number of words to learn, gradually increasing the daily word intake if necessary.
• 📈 Start with a smaller daily word count and increase it as the learner becomes more comfortable, aiming for a high review count to solidify learning.
• 🚫 Avoid using textbooks for JLPT preparation, as they are deemed inefficient for passing the test quickly.
• 🧠 Reduce test anxiety by not relying on textbooks and focusing on the immersion method, which is believed to improve recall during the test.
• 🗣️ Engaging in speaking and writing Japanese, even though not required for the JLPT, can enhance motivation and overall language proficiency.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video script?

The main focus of the video script is to share a method to pass the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N1 level in a relatively short amount of time using five simple steps.

How long did it take the speaker to pass the JLPT N1 after starting to learn Japanese?

It took the speaker nine months to pass the JLPT N1 after starting to learn Japanese.

What is the first and most important step mentioned in the script for learning Japanese?

The first and most important step mentioned is immersion, which involves listening to Japanese all day and engaging in both passive and active immersion for at least two to three hours per day.

What is the second step in the speaker's method for passing the JLPT N1?

The second step is 'Remembering the Kanji' (RTK), which is considered important for understanding the meaning of words through kanji, even if the exact word is unknown.

What tool does the speaker recommend for learning kanji and vocabulary?

The speaker recommends using Anki, a flashcard application, for learning kanji and vocabulary.

What book does the speaker suggest for learning kanji using the RTK method?

The speaker suggests using the 'RTK' book, which provides a list of the top 1500 kanji with associated English words.

How does the speaker propose to learn Japanese grammar?

The speaker suggests reading 'Taking Guide to Japanese' to gain a basic understanding of Japanese grammar without trying to memorize or write it down.

What website does the speaker recommend for filtering and learning JLPT level-specific vocabulary?

The speaker recommends using gishow.org to filter and learn vocabulary by JLPT level.

What is the speaker's opinion on using textbooks for preparing for the JLPT?

The speaker believes that textbooks are not necessary and can be inefficient for passing the JLPT, suggesting that immersion and the outlined steps are more effective.

How does the speaker address the issue of test anxiety in the context of JLPT preparation?

The speaker advises against using textbooks to reduce test anxiety, as they believe it can decrease recall rate and performance during the test.

What additional advice does the speaker give for maintaining motivation during the JLPT preparation process?

The speaker suggests interacting with native speakers, either by talking or texting, to rekindle motivation and improve language skills.