Let’s make a study plan to pass the JLPT in 2024!

Passing the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a commendable goal, and creating a well-structured study plan is crucial for success.

Here is a realistic study plan to help you prepare for the JLPT in 2024!

Keep in mind that individual learning styles and preferences may vary, so feel free to adjust this plan to better suit your needs 🙂

Step 1: Assess Your Current Proficiency (January 2024)

• Take a Practice Test
  • Start with a (full-length if possible) JLPT practice test to identify your strengths and weaknesses.

• Skill Assessment
  • Evaluate your proficiency in each section (grammar, vocabulary, reading, and listening).

Step 2: Set Realistic Goals (January 2024)

• Define Your Objectives
  • Break down your goals for each section of the exam.
  • Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives.
• Daily/Weekly Targets
  • Determine how much time you can allocate to study each day and week.

Step 3: Create a Study Schedule (February – December 2024)

• Balanced Approach
  • Allocate time to each section of the JLPT (grammar, vocabulary, reading, and listening).
• Daily Study Sessions
  • Aim for at least 1-2 hours of focused study per day.
• Weekly Review:
  • Set aside time each week to review and reinforce what you’ve learnt.

Step 4: Study Material Selection (February – December 2024)

• Grammar
  • Use JLPT level-specific grammar textbooks (e.g. “Shin Kanzen Master”) to cover the grammar points systematically.
  • Create a schedule to cover a certain number of grammar points each week.
  • Create your own sentences using the learnt grammar.

• Vocabulary
  • Create Anki flashcards or use existing decks with JLPT vocabulary.
  • Focus on memorising both the meaning and reading of each word.
  • Read Japanese articles, books, and essays to see how vocabulary is used in context.
  • Practice writing sentences using newly learnt vocabulary.
  • Prioritise learning high-frequency vocabulary.
  • Use word frequency lists to ensure you cover essential terms.
• Reading
  • Read articles, essays, and books in Japanese to improve reading comprehension.
  • Read a variety of materials, such as news articles, essays, and editorials in Japanese.
  • Use JLPT reading comprehension books for practice.
  • Practice reading passages under timed conditions to improve speed and comprehension.
  • Identify the main ideas and key information in each passage.
  • Work on your ability to infer meaning from context.
  • Practice summarising and paraphrasing passages.

• Listening
  • Listen to podcasts, audiobooks, and Japanese radio to expose yourself to various accents and speech patterns.
  • Use JLPT listening practice materials, including audio or online resources.
  • Practice taking effective notes while listening to conversations or lectures.
  • Focus on capturing key information and main ideas.
  • Listen to the same audio multiple times to reinforce comprehension.
  • Use transcripts to check your understanding and identify areas of difficulty.

Step 5: Mock Exams and Review (September – November 2024)

• Mock Tests
  • Take full-length mock exams under timed conditions to simulate the actual test environment. This will train your stamina, so you won’t feel exhausted in the actual exam!

• Review Weak Areas
  • Identify areas where you need improvement and focus on those during the final months.

Step 6: Final Review and Exam Strategies (December 2024)

• Last-Minute Review
  • Focus on high-priority topics and revisit challenging sections.
• Exam Strategies
  • Familiarise yourself with the test format and time management strategies.

Additional Tips

• Consistency is Key
  • Stick to your study schedule consistently.
• Use Language in Daily Life
  • Practice speaking and writing in Japanese regularly.
• Identify Weaknesses
  • Regularly assess your performance in each section and prioritise improvement in weaker areas.
• Review Regularly
  • Regularly review previously studied grammar points, vocabulary, and practice tests to reinforce your knowledge.
• Simulate Exam Conditions
  • Take practice tests under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam experience.
• Join Study Groups
  • Connect with other JLPT aspirants for mutual support and study sessions.
• Stay Healthy
  • Ensure you get enough rest and maintain a healthy lifestyle for optimal cognitive function.
• Seek Feedback
  • Join online forums or study groups to discuss questions and seek feedback on your understanding of different topics.
  • I (Yoshie) will be happy to help with your preparations as much as I can. Write your questions or sentences with the grammar points in the comments below so I can check them for you!

Remember, the key to success is a disciplined and focused approach. Good luck with your JLPT preparations!