Ultimate Guide to Kanji Test
By Yuka Kasai | September 2nd, 2024
When studying for a Kanji test, you may feel overwhelmed by the vast number of characters with various pronunciations and meanings. Whether you're a beginner looking to improve your skills for the JLPT or an advanced learner aiming to sharpen your skills for Kanji Kentei, it is normal to worry about how to approach these challenges.
This article will guide you through practical strategies for mastering Kanji, making sure you're well-prepared for your Kanji test.
This article is a part of our extensive series on Learning about Japan through Online Japanese Lessons at Japan Switch.
Kanji in the JLPT vs. Real Life
How Important Is Kanji in Everyday Life in Japan?
Kanji is an essential part of everyday life in Japan. Not only is kanji essential in daily communication, but it is also crucial in understanding signs and maps, newspapers, TV programs, or official documents. While the JLPT, Japanese Language Proficiency Test, measures the level of your kanji knowledge, the kanji you need in real life often goes beyond them. As you spend more time in Japan, you will come across specialized terms or region-specific kanji. As such, the JLPT is a good foundation for more practical use of kanji in real life.
The JLPT is divided into five levels, each requiring a different number of kanji. These are the guides for the amount of Kanji you need to know at each level:
N5: About 100 kanji
N4: About 300 kanji
N3: About 650 kanji
N2: About 1,000 kanji
N1: About 2,000 kanji
These numbers are only an approximation, and the actual kanji tested can vary.
Is It Worth Taking the JLPT?
Taking the JLPT can be highly beneficial. For those who learn Japanese, the JLPT is a well-known way to measure proficiency. It is a recognized certification that can enhance your resume, and open up job opportunities. It’s often required for jobs, university applications, and visa applications in Japan. It also provides a structured path for learning Japanese as a motivational tool, giving learners specific goals to achieve. Even if you don’t plan to live in Japan, passing the JLPT, especially the higher levels, can be a significant personal achievement.
Is It True That a Lot of People Fail the Higher Levels of the JLPT?
Many people struggle with the higher levels of JLPT, particularly N1 and N2. These levels measure not only the level of mere kanji but also the ability to comprehend kanji with advanced grammar, reading comprehension, and listening skills. For example, it requires a deeper understanding of the more complex use of kanji combined with a deep Japanese culture and context. Additionally, the reading comprehension sections are challenging and require a strong familiarity with various advanced kanji. As a result, these exams are the most challenging and have a higher number of repeat-takers.
Preparation is key if you want to avoid failing the JLPT N1 or N2. It includes the understanding of the test format using JLPT-specific materials and immersing yourself in advanced Kanji. Also, taking practice kanji tests under timed conditions will not only familiarize you with the test format but also help keep you motivated. Additionally, reading and listening practice with real-life materials like news articles, novels, and podcasts will help you build a wide range of vocabulary, especially if you are in pursuit of attaining higher levels of JLPT.
Testing your current level of Kanji: Online kanji tests and apps
Before jumping into full-blown exams or all the kanji in daily life, it’s important to know your level. It allows you to determine at which kanji levels you need to start, helping you build effective study plans. Online kanji tests and apps can provide an accurate assessment of your current kanji proficiency.
Best Online Kanji Tests / Apps for Kanji Practice:
1. All levels: The official site of JLPT (Online tests)
There are the JLPT sample questions provided in the official site of JLPT. These practice problems are designed to help you gain a sense of the test format and difficulty. They are available for all levels, from N1 to N5, and often are divided into different sections: vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening. Testing through these sample questions helps you get familiar with the types of questions and time allocation for each question in the actual exam.
2. Beginner: Kanji Study (Android, iOS)
Kanji Study is recommended for those preparing for JLPT N5 and N4. This app features handwriting recognition, customizable quizzes, and progress tracking. It is available for both Android and iOS users.
3. Intermediate: WaniKani (Web)
WaniKani is suitable for those pursuing JLPT N3 and N2. WaniKani uses mnemonics and a spaced repetition system to help reinforce memory with stories. It is a web-based app, so it can be accessed from almost every device as long as it has an internet connection. Although WaniKani corresponds to the intermediate level, it has a learning platform that provides training for learners ranging from N5 level to N1, too.
4. Advanced: Anki (Android, iOS, Web)
Anki is an excellent app for those preparing for the JLPT N1 and Kanji Kentei levels. It is a highly customizable flashcard app that offers various options to modify the setting, including card layout and review timing. Anki also uses spaced repetition to enhance retention. It is available for both Android and iOS users.
5. Paid Kanji Test Apps Worth Considering
In addition to the apps mentioned above, Skritter (iOS/Android) and Kanji Tree (Android) deserve an honorable mention. Skritter focuses heavily on kanji writing practice with real-time feedback on stroke accuracy. It’s a great choice if you need in-depth kanji writing skills for both JLPT and Kanji Kentei. Kanji Tree provides kanji study with extensive quizzes, stroke practice, and vocabulary drills, which are designed for intermediate to advanced learners.
How to Retain More with Apps
To maximize effectiveness, it is recommended that you try various apps and choose the one that motivates you the most and helps you expand your knowledge. Consistency is the key to memory retention; 15-30 minutes of daily practice is ideal. Additionally, incorporating handwriting exercises and spaced repetition techniques with mnemonic stories or SRS algorithms like WaniKani and Skritter are effective for long-term retention.
The Most Difficult Kanji Test in Japan - The Kentei
What is the kanji kentei test?
The Kanji Kentei is a well-known kanji certification in Japan. It is often common for Japanese schools to require their students to take exams to enhance their knowledge of Kanji as well as for their careers. Unlike the JLPT, which assesses the overall ability in reading and listening comprehension, the Kentei test focuses solely on Kanji. It tests not only the memorization of kanji, but also their meanings, pronunciations, and natural usage in various contexts. The exams are offered several times a year by level.
The exam has levels ranging from 10 to 1, with level 1 being the most difficult. Examinees are expected to know around 6,000 kanji characters to pass level 1, which is challenging even for native speakers. Passing rates for higher levels are only about 8-10%.
Despite its difficulty, passing the Kentei Kanji Test is prestigious and can enhance one’s resume. However, since the higher levels of Kanji Kentei test knowledge on rare use of Kanji, these certifications are not necessarily recommended for those seeking regular jobs that only require Japanese proficiency for practical businesses.
Recommended Textbooks for Each Level of JLPT:
JLPT N5/N4: Basic Kanji Book Vol. 1
Basic Kanji Book Vol. 1 is designed for beginners, introducing 250 basic kanji with clear instructions, stroke order guides, and practice exercises.
JLPT N3: Kanji in Context Workbook Vol. 1
For intermediate learners, Kanji in Context Workbook Vol. 1 integrates kanji into practical phrases, helping students learn the natural uses of kanji. Exercises range from fill-in-the-blank to sentence-building tasks.
JLPT N2: Try! JLPT N2 Kanji & Vocabulary Workbook
JLPT N2: Try! JLPT N2 Kanji & Vocabulary Workbook includes kanji drills, reading comprehension exercises, and practice sentences. It is designed to follow the format of the JLPT exam by offering timed quizzes and mock exams that focus on reading speed and comprehension, which is a crucial training for passing N2.
JLPT N1: Nihongo So-matome Kanji N1
Nihongo So-matome Kanji N1 is designed for learners in pursuit of the N1 level, where small distinctions in kanji readings matter greatly. It offers practice with a focus not only on mere kanji readings but also on their nuanced meanings. For advanced learners, this textbook offers kanji readings with nuanced meanings and multiple example sentences. The book has a clear layout and weekly study plans, making it easy to stay organized and track progress, which is essential for the N1 level.
Recommended Textbooks for Each Level of Kanji Kentei:
Kanji Kentei Level 10-8: "漢字検定 10級 5分間対策ドリル (受験研究社)(Kanji Kentei Level 10: 5-Minute Prep Drill)"
"漢字検定 10級 5分間対策ドリル (受験研究社)(Kanji Kentei Level 10: 5-Minute Prep Drill)" is beginner-friendly with designs for Japanese children. This series is targeted at Japanese elementary school students, yet it is also helpful for adult beginners. The textbook offers simple exercises such as matching kanji to their readings and drawing the correct stroke order, building a strong foundation for further learning.
Kanji Kentei Level 7-5: “漢字検定 7級 5分間対策ドリル (受験研究社)”("Kanji Kentei Level 7: 5-Minute Prep Drill ")
Kanji Kentei Level 7: 5-Minute Prep Drill includes practice tests and quizzes in the actual exam format. It is designed for learners who have already mastered basic kanji, as the textbook offers more advanced exercises, including word drills and fill-in-the-blank tests.
Kanji Kentei Level 4-3: “漢字検定 4級 5分間対策ドリル (受験研究社)”("Kanji Kentei Level 4: 5-Minute Prep Drill ")
“漢字検定 4級 5分間対策ドリル (受験研究社)”("Kanji Kentei Level 4: 5-Minute Prep Drill ") contains all-inclusive practice which covers readings, meanings, and writing exercises. In addition to those extensive practice exercises, it also includes mock exams that closely resemble the actual Kanji Kentei test, allowing learners to gauge their preparation and identify areas to be improved.
Kanji Kentei Level 2-1: "史上最強の漢検マスター2級問題集 (The Ultimate Kanji Kentei Level 2 Master Workbook)"
Kanken Level 2-1 is the most advanced kanji kentei, and even native Japanese could fail. The passing rate for the Level 2 Japanese Kanji Proficiency Test is said to be around 20 ~30%. Learners preparing for these levels will need detailed exercises and mock exams. Targeting advanced learners, (The Ultimate Kanji Kentei Level 2 Master Workbook)" delves into rare kanji and their less common readings. It also includes timed drills and advanced-level mock tests, making it essential for those aiming for the highest levels of Kanji Kentei.
Step 2: Creating a study plan for the Kanji test
The model study plans for each level of JLPT:
JLPT N5 (6-Month Plan, 30 to 60 minutes daily)
To prepare for the JLPT N5, it is generally expected to study around 450 to 500 and approximately 150 hours are for learning Kanji, dedicating 0.5 to 1 hour daily for six months.
In the first two months, focus on mastering basic kanji by using the beginner textbooks mentioned above. Before starting to review the same questions, it is recommended that you complete at least one full round of the book you have chosen. This way, you will be able to get a sense of the exam format and overall question types early on, enhancing the quality of your studying.
By the end of this period, you should be comfortable with kanji in simple conversations and sentences. The following two months should be allocated for review. This period is for identifying patterns in your mistakes and figuring out how to correct them. This is a crucial step in improving your scores. In the final month, focus on taking practice tests and aim to consistently score above 50% to ensure you’re well-prepared for the exam.
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JLPT N4 (8-10 Months)
To prepare for the JLPT N4, it is generally expected to study around 750 to 800 hours. Out of these hours, approximately 250 to 270 hours are required for kanji, dedicating 0.5 to 1 hour daily for 8 to 10 months.
At the start, focus on mastering lower intermediate kanji using N4-specific textbooks and resources including the ones mentioned above. As is the case with JLPT5, it is recommended that you complete at least one full round of your chosen materials before starting to review the same questions. Since JLPT is on a higher level, it usually takes longer to finish the first round (3-4 months).
The next two months should be spent reviewing and reinforcing your knowledge. The final month should be for practice tests and aim for a score of 50-60% or higher.
JLPT N3 (10-12 months)
The estimated study time for the N3 preparation is around 1,300 to 1,500 hours and about 500 hours of dedication for Kanji. Therefore, 30 to 60 minutes is required for daily study for from ten to twelve months. While it’s ideal to complete the first round of study materials before reviewing and repeating the same questions, it’s common for learners to feel overwhelmed or lose productivity, given that the JLPT N3 is more demanding.
A better approach would be to focus on the first half of the textbook and start reviewing it before moving on to the second half. In the first three months, focus on completing the first round and reviewing the first half of the book.
The next three months should be used for the first round and reviewing of later half. Then, the next two to three months should be allocated for the review of the entire book, focusing on common mistakes and difficult areas. In the final month, take practice tests to ensure you consistently score above 55-60%.
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JLPT N2 (2 years to 3 years)
For JLPT N2, aim for about 600 to 750 hours to study for kanj out of 2,100 to 2,400 hours in total. You can assume approximately 2 years to 3 years for kanji, studying 0.5 to 1 hours daily.
At this level, it requires more comprehensive knowledge of Kanji learning. Therefore, you should put more effort into learning Kanji from wider contexts, when practicing and reviewing. Except for this, the structure study schedules are almost the same: completing the first round and reviewing the first half of the book in the first three months, the next three months for the latter half, and the next two to three months for the entire review. Repeat this process until you constantly score 55-60 % in the final month.
JLPT N1 (4 to 5 years)
To prepare for JLPT N1, the expected study time is approximately 4000 hours. Out of these hours, you can assume approximately 1,750 to 1,850 hours to study Kanji, studying 30 to 60 minutes daily over four to five years.
At this level, the learners often have figured out their own methods for studying kanji, which means the study strategy might vary. In addition to completing textbooks, reviewing, and practice exams, it is recommended that you read Japanese newspapers and literature to gain more exposure to real-life kanji.
The model study plans for each level of Kanji Kentei
Similarly to JLPT, Kanji Kentei also requires a different amount of time for each level. For Level 10, try to dedicate 150-200 hours over 3-6 months, focusing on basic Kanji with 30-60 minute study time every day.
For Levels 9 to 8, aim for 300-400 hours in 6-12 months. Levels 7 to 5 require 600-800 hours over 1-2 years for intermediate Kanji. For Levels 4 to 2, it is advisable to plan 1,200-1,500 hours over 2-3 years to master advanced Kanji. Level 1, the most challenging kentei, requires 2,000-2,500 hours over 3-4 years, to master complex Kanji.
Tips to Help Prepare Effectively for Effective Reviewing for Kanji Tests
What Else Can You Do Daily to Improve Your Knowledge and Retention of Kanji?
Reading manga or literature in Japanese is an easier way to start immersing yourself in kanji in real-life contexts. Because literature and manga convey interesting stories with various emotional expressions, they strengthen the connection between the images with each kanji and enhance memory retention. Manga is particularly useful because it combines images with text, helping you visually understand the kanji in various forms of Japanese culture and contexts. On the other hand, books provide more formal forms and can help you see kanji used in a more advanced context.
The best manga or literature in Japanese is listed in The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Reading too. In addition to this, here are some recommended books and manga for different proficiency levels:
Books for beginners:
Remembering the Kanji by James Heisig is a good choice. It introduces a method for learning kanji by associating each character with a unique story. Also, Genki: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese by Eri Banno” is recommended. It is a comprehensive textbook that covers basic kanji with grammar and vocabulary.
Manga for beginners:
My Neighbor Totoro (となりのトトロ) by Studio Ghibli: A heart-warming story with simple language for children, perfect for beginners.
Books for intermediate learners:
Read Japanese Kanji Today by Len Walsh: A practical guide to reading kanji in context including in real-life situations.
Kanji in MangaLand by Marc Bernabe: Combines kanji learning with enjoyable manga.
Manga for intermediate learners:
Yotsuba&! (よつばと!) by Kiyohiko Azuma: The story of the adventures of a curious young girl, using everyday language, which is the best for intermediate learners. It also has the English translated version which helps you check your understanding.
Doraemon (ドラえもん) by Fujiko F. Fujio: A classic series about a robot from the future and an ordinary young boy, filled with useful vocabulary and kanji. This also has the English translated version which is helpful for checking your understanding.
Books for advanced learners:
Tobira: Gateway to Advanced Japanese by Mayumi Oka: An advanced textbook that covers complex kanji and grammar, ideal for those seeking deeper knowledge.
The Kodansha Kanji Learner’s Course by Andrew Scott Conning: A detailed guide to kanji, providing comprehensive explanations with examples.
Manga for advanced learners:
One Piece (ワンピース) by Eiichiro Oda: A popular series with rich vocabulary and kanji, which is perfect for advanced learners. Also, since this series is one of the most well-known manga in Japan, it opens up the opportunity to expand your community with native Japanese speakers.
Attack on Titan (進撃の巨人) by Hajime Isayama: A popular story with advanced language, perfect for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding reading learning experience while learning at the same time.
Active recall
Active recall is a powerful memory retention technique. Compared to passively reviewing kanji, testing yourself regularly is by far more effective in retaining what you have learned. For example, look at the kanji and try to recall its meaning and pronunciation without immediately flipping the card. Although it exposes you to a certain amount of pressure, this method forces your brain to retrieve information actively, which strengthens your memory, therefore it is highly recommended.
Reviewing before sleep and in the morning
Timing your reviews can also play a crucial role in retention. One of the best times is right before going to bed and in the morning. It allows your brain to process and consolidate information while you sleep, leveraging the power of sleep to reinforce learning. In the morning, review the same kanji again to freshen up your memory and reinforce what you learned the previous day. This routine helps in transferring information from short-term to long-term memory.
Time to Start Studying!
We hope that you now have a clearer idea of what it takes to master Kanji tests after reading our guide to mastering Kanji. While studying for a Kanji test seems overwhelming at first, you'll see results once you find a study method that suits you.
Good luck with your Kanji test!
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