I always stand by the idea that the best Japanese study is centered around a good textbook, program, or class. But making some small changes in your life can make the learning process go even quicker. If you are like I was and want to learn Japanese and quickly as possible, it’s important to always look for ways to maximize your study time. Here are a few ideas that worked for me and expanded my study time beyond the hours at a desk with a textbook and homework.
Install the Japanese language
There are a countless number of ways you can use the internet to aid you as you study Japanese. The first step is installing Japanese onto your computer. This is free and doesn’t even require you to download anything from the internet; it should exist on your computer already. From here you can find a Japanese pen-pal, join a Japanese chat or message board, or keep a diary. All of these things can aid you as you study Japanese.
Name everything you see
One way to keep your mind running in Japanese mode is to constantly name everything you can in Japanese. When you are in your room or crossing the street, try to name everything you see. You will realize there are some words you don’t understand and some you need to study harder and when you get a chance you can check these words and review them.
Carry word lists/flashcards everywhere
This method added an extra hour or two of review to my Japanese study every day. At night I would make a list of new words (20% review) and during the next day I would take it out and look at it about 500 times a day. I took it out while I ate, on the train, while I was walking to class, while playstation was loading, in the doctors waiting room, at red lights (be careful), and even in the bathroom and the shower. If you can stay motivated and remember not to substitute your serious study time, this can be a brilliant way to expand your vocabulary. Try making use of it while you study Japanese. Here’s a start for beginners!
Think of words you want to know
This might seem obvious but thinking about doing it and actually doing it are two different things. Think of things you might want to say and then find out how to say them in Japanese. Write it down and study it along with your regular study plan. You will tend to learn these words and phrases rather quickly because they are things you can use in daily life.
Use your own methods
Every person has their own way of studying and so you should be able to come up with your own ways to maximize your time studying Japanese. Try to make good use of your time and find studying methods that fit your individual lifestyle.
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