The JLPT is coming. You already signed up for it. You paid the fees, and now you’re just waiting for that little paper that will tell you that you will have to take an hour-and-a-half train ride to a prefecture you’ve never been to before. Keep in mind that you live right next to a university campus that is most likely being used for the test.
Putting all grievances about the test location aside, the fact that you signed for it has not changed. So, what can you do to maximize your chances of passing the test? Let’s find out.
Mock Tests
- Familiarize yourself with the JLPT format and instructions.
- Take the official JLPT mock tests online (18 questions per level).
- Be aware that official mock tests are limited and rarely updated.
First, familiarize yourself with the test. The JLPT is just as much about testing your ability to follow instructions as it is about testing your Japanese skills. The best way to get familiar with the test would be to take mock examinations.
The JLPT official site has a mock test that you can take for each level. There are 18 questions. The first 13 are a mix of grammar, reading and vocabulary. The last five are listening questions. While it’s a nice source to try the test for free, it does have several drawbacks.
For one, the test only has 18 questions. This is nowhere near the number of questions on the test. Thus, it won’t work as a practical test. It’s really like getting a small sampler at a buffet. In addition, the questions they ask seem to be rarely updated, so you can’t really take the test multiple times.
JLPT Prep Textbooks
- Choose from textbooks that focus on specific test sections (e.g., vocabulary, kanji, grammar) or comprehensive books that cover all sections.
- Individual books provide in-depth explanations and more exercises but require more space and cost more.
- Comprehensive textbooks are convenient but may lack detail, and the listening section is sometimes omitted.
A much better source for the test would be to get textbooks specifically for the JLPT. There are countless textbooks designed to help you study for the test. Some of them are focused specifically on just one aspect of the test. For example, some books will be just about 語彙(ごい) or vocabulary.
Some textbooks cover all five sections of the test in one, offering a comprehensive approach. Others focus on a single aspect, like kanji or grammar, providing more in-depth explanations and additional exercises to reinforce your learning. The downside of using separate books for each section is that you’ll need space for five textbooks, and with prices starting at ¥1,500 each, it can be a significant investment.
On the other hand, comprehensive textbooks may be thicker, but you only need one, and they typically cover most, if not all, sections of the test. However, they are usually less detailed than individual books, and some may not include a listening section, requiring you to purchase it separately.
JLPT YouTube Content
- A free and accessible study option.
- Some videos are high-quality, making it feel like attending a JLPT prep class.
- Most videos don’t include study materials, so you’ll need to take notes.
Another great way to study beyond textbooks is by watching YouTube videos. They’re free and accessible anywhere with an internet connection. Some are so well-made that it feels like attending a JLPT prep class. The main drawback is that most videos don’t come with accompanying study materials, so you’ll need to take your own notes and find a system that helps you retain information effectively.
Applications
- Some apps provide practice tests and exercises for different sections of the test.
- Some focus on specific areas like listening comprehension.
- Both free and paid options allow for studying anytime, anywhere.
Another great digital aid for the test is apps. There are apps that, like textbooks, provide practice tests for all aspects of the test. Some apps only focus on one portion, such as 聴解(ちょうかい). Both free and paid apps allow you to study basically anywhere.
Podcasts
- Great listening practice, especially for advanced learners.
- Many learner-focused podcasts include transcripts for shadowing (listen and repeat).
- While the JLPT doesn’t test speaking, improving overall Japanese skills is beneficial.
Another excellent study tool is Japanese podcasts. For higher-level JLPT students, listening to native Japanese podcasts provides great practice. Many podcasts designed for learners include transcripts, allowing you to follow along or practice shadowing—improving both speaking and listening skills simultaneously. While the JLPT doesn’t have a speaking section, strengthening your overall Japanese proficiency is always beneficial.
That’s it for my tips and tricks for studying for the JLPT. If you’ve already signed up for the test, just do your best, give yourself time to study and review, and remember to take multiple pencils and or spare lead if you’re taking a mechanical pencil!