How do I memorize a zillion words in three months?
I second reading in context. The reading and grammar section of the test is the most difficult for most test takers, and it’s also the one that’s worth the most points. Also, it is very easy to run out of time during that section, so time yourself reading so that you have a good idea of your own time management needs. When I passed Level 2, I skipped ahead and did the grammar first, then all the reading. In the end I had just enough time to finish both, but it was a close thing, and I’m glad I started with the easy part (for me). I know the JLPT does not test writing, but It’s easier for me to learn new kanji if I write them. You can find sheets of kanji practice paper online. What I do is find a good compound word that contains the kanji I’m trying to learn. It’s especially helpful if it’s a word I already know. Then I write it over and over, saying the word out loud each time. When I am done writing each row, I use the new w
The best investment I ever made in Japanese was buying a pda with Supermemo and Japanese OS and input software. Supermemo is basically an electronic flashcard system that keeps track of your rate of forgetting, and the specific difficulty you have with each card, and only presents you with review of the cards that you are on the verge of forgetting. This is a huge time maximizer, as anyone who has made flashcards will see. Try putting 3,000 flash cards in your pocket and reviewing them at a stoplight… The convenience factor alone is immense considering any downtime you experience can instantly become ultra-targetted review time. I’ve used it in doctor’s offices, in line at the supermarket, in heavy traffic, at boring parties, waiting in movie theatres, it’s fabulous. I have a couple thousand flashcards in my su
