So, you’ve set your sights on passing the JLPT N5—that’s fantastic! The N5 is the introductory level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, and while it’s considered the easiest of the five levels, it’s still a real challenge if you’re not prepared.
The good news? With the right approach, passing the N5 on your first attempt is totally achievable.
Whether you’re learning on your own or with a class, these 10 tips can help you study smarter and walk into the exam room with confidence.
1. Understand What the Test Covers
Before diving into flashcards or grammar drills, take a moment to understand what the JLPT N5 actually tests. It focuses on:
- Basic vocabulary (about 800 words)
- Around 100 kanji
- Simple grammar structures
- Basic reading and listening comprehension
Check the official JLPT website or a good prep book to see the format and question types. Knowing the goal makes it much easier to plan your study.
2. Start With Hiragana and Katakana
These two syllabaries are the foundation of written Japanese. If you’re not already fluent in hiragana and katakana, make it your top priority. You’ll see them everywhere in the test—and they’re essential for reading instructions, questions, and answers.
Apps like Kana Quiz or Tofugu’s guides are great for mastering them quickly.
3. Build a Daily Vocabulary Habit
You don’t need to memorize thousands of words—but you do need a solid base of around 800 common terms. Focus on everyday nouns, verbs, adjectives, and common expressions. Use:
- Flashcard apps like Anki or Memrise
- JLPT N5 vocabulary lists (many are free online)
- Label objects around your house in Japanese—it helps cement the words in your memory
Just 10–15 new words a day can really add up over time.
4. Learn Basic Grammar Early On
Grammar gives structure to your vocabulary. Start with the basics: verb conjugations (like ます form), particles (は, が, を, に, で), and sentence patterns like AはBです.
Books like “Genki I” or “Tae Kim’s Guide to Japanese Grammar” are super helpful for beginners.
5. Practice Listening Regularly
Listening tends to be one of the harder parts of the JLPT. Even at N5, the test includes short conversations and announcements.
To improve:
- Listen to slow Japanese podcasts (like “Let’s Learn Japanese from Small Talk” or “Nihongo Con Teppei for Beginners”)
- Watch kids’ shows or anime with Japanese subtitles
- Use JLPT-specific listening practice from apps or YouTube
Try to listen to something in Japanese every day, even if it’s just 10 minutes.
6. Take Full Practice Tests
Once you’ve studied for a few weeks, try a full N5 mock test under timed conditions. This helps you:
- Get used to the pacing
- Spot areas where you’re weak
- Reduce test-day anxiety
There are lots of free JLPT N5 practice tests online. Schedule a few of these during your prep.
7. Master Kanji Gradually
Yes, you only need to know about 100 kanji for N5—but they’re important. Start with the most common ones: numbers, days of the week, basic verbs, etc.
Use spaced repetition systems (like WaniKani or Kanji Study app) to make memorization easier. Writing them by hand also helps with recall.
8. Mix Passive and Active Study
Passive study is great (watching anime, listening to podcasts), but it’s not enough on its own. Make time for active learning:
- Write out sentences
- Read aloud
- Do practice questions
- Speak, even if it’s just to yourself
Active engagement helps lock the material into your brain and builds confidence.
9. Focus on the Test Format
The JLPT doesn’t include speaking or writing—it’s all multiple choice, focusing on reading and listening. So tailor your prep toward this style:
- Get familiar with common question formats
- Practice skimming short texts for meaning
- Learn to listen for key words and context
Knowing how the test “thinks” makes a big difference.
10. Stay Consistent, Not Perfect
You don’t need to know everything to pass. Aim for consistency: regular study sessions, a steady pace, and a balanced mix of skills.
Even 30 minutes a day adds up. Don’t stress about perfection—JLPT N5 is about basic communication, not mastery.
Final Thoughts
Passing JLPT N5 is a great milestone in your Japanese journey. It proves you can understand and use basic Japanese in daily life, and it gives you a strong foundation for higher levels.
With a clear plan, regular practice, and a bit of curiosity, you’ll be well on your way to success.
がんばってね！(Good luck!)