Preparing for the JLPT: How to pass the JLPT N5

Preparing for the JLPT: How to pass the JLPT N5 : Hello ladies and gents, today we are going to be talking about how to pass the dreaded JLPT N5 level. For those of you who don’t know, the JLPT is a Japanese comprehension test that measures, your listening, grammar, vocabulary, reading and kanji ability in Japanese. The levels start from n5, being the easiest, and go all the way up to N1, which is the hardest.

The test is held twice a year, once in the summer and once in winter at selected educational institutes.

Preparing for the JLPT N5: How to pass the JLPT n5

For most, the JLPT is a really good way to mark your progress with Japanese and allows you to work towards a specific level, focussing on the specific study materials for that level. There are tonnes of textbooks and resources out there that are tailored towards the specific level.

Having a test, something to aim for, really allows you to push your limits with Japanese and should definitely be considered for any serious Japanese learners. It can also look great on your CV if you are looking for a job in Japan either now or in the future.

Today we are going to look specifically at the JLPT N5 exam and learn what it takes to get ready for the exam.

Pass JLPT N5 : Create a plan: the steps for success.

There are around 800 words you need to know for the JLPT which, quite honestly, is not a lot. Along with the grammar, reading, listening and kanji however, it can quickly add up and overwhelm some learners. The key is to create a solid study routine that is focussed around the test and today we are going to show you how to do just that.

You are first going to need to get a list of those 800 words (you can find them anywhere online with a quick google) Highlight the ones that you know and list down all of the ones you don’t. Put them into an anki system or flash cards and try to memorise 5 each day on your lunch break, on the way to work, anywhere you can.

The vocabulary should always be your priority when taking on the JLPT as it will help with all the other areas later.  

Pass JLPT N5 : Grammar point mastery

The grammar points that you are going to need to look at for the JLPT can again all be found online but this is the second thing you need to prioritise. Once you know the vocabulary for the JLPT learning grammar will be a lot easier. The key with grammar is to focus on one point each morning and create 6 sentences with the same point to help you remember it. Do this with one grammar point each day until you finally complete them all. Once this is done, it’s time to move onto the Kanji

Pass JLPT N5 : N5 Kanji point mastery

Truth be told there actually isn’t that many Kanji in the N5 exam there is only around 100. These are the most basic yet most common Kanji in the Japanese language. You should learn one a day much like in the anki / flash card system in the vocab section. Just focus on internalising one per day and you will be absolutely fine.

Pass JLPT N5 : Read your way to JLPT success.

Now that you have all of the kanji, vocab and grammar knowledge for the exam you are going to need to focus on reading. Reading is certainly the downfall of most people in the exam as there are time pressures with the reading materials. You need to practice reading articles over and over again to get your reading speed faster. Focus your attention on what the question is asking and try to pinpoint that section of the sentence / article to save time. Reading speed will come as you practice so dedicate as much time as you canto reading practice examples online.

Pass JLPT N5 : Listening: the final piece of the puzzle

Listening is the final piece of the puzzle. It is something that you can practice on YouTube by searching “Jlpt n5 listening”. Listen to as many different videos as you can while your working out, commuting, cleaning, any opportunity you can.

Pass JLPT N5 : Test tips

The exam is completely multiple choice which means that even if you don’t know the answer, you still have a 1 in 4 chance of getting it right. We suggest skipping the questions you are struggling with and come back to them later. Never leave an answer blank and always answer every question, even if you don’t know the answer. At the end of the day you should remember that no matter the result, you can always take the test again. Use the JLPT as a motivator and don’t just try and “scrape by” on a low grade. Go for it and own it! 

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