Yesterday I checked the results, passed N2, self-studied for 6 months, and recorded the learning process and experience.
January#
Spent two days using a mobile app to memorize the Hiragana chart;
Then downloaded the vocabulary memorization app Moji Test, purchased the JLPT Red Book for ¥68 in the app, and learned 20 words per day;
Found free Japanese textbook video lessons on Bilibili, taught by the Japanese teacher Afei, watched one lesson per week.
February#
Watched one lesson per week and increased daily vocabulary memorization to 25 words.
March, April#
Watched two lessons per week and increased daily vocabulary memorization to 40 words.
May#
Went to Shanghai to see HimeHina's performance 🥕🥕;
Memorized vocabulary daily;
Increased to daily watching one lesson;
Attempted N2 vocabulary and grammar questions for the first time, found that I could do them but scored low.
Attempted N2 reading questions for the first time, could do them slowly, with a correct rate of two-thirds.
June#
Completed six sets of recent exam papers, carefully summarized the key points of grammar questions and similar test points;
Did not purchase any grammar books;
Carefully listened to and read each listening section in each set at least two to three times;
Summarized my own test-taking methods, such as the order of doing reading questions.
July#
🤡 Couldn't study anymore, played Apex.
On July 7th, rode a bike to HUST for the exam, a very hot day...
Afterthoughts#
- Because I like watching anime, I may have subconsciously learned a little Japanese, interest is the best teacher.
- Three sections, each section requires 30 points to pass, allocate study efforts accordingly.
- For N2 listening, must listen carefully. Within two months, I went from not understanding a single sentence to a correct rate of
16/31in this exam. Listening and summarizing carefully is very effective! - One to two months before the exam, you can start practicing with exam papers, simulate exams, get a feel, and summarize experiences and shortcomings.
- Memorizing vocabulary is the first priority in language learning.
- Daily or weekly self-assessment of progress and direction is a test-taking skill.
- For Chinese native speakers, the reading section is relatively easy.
Above are some of my own experiences.
By July, I had just finished memorizing all the words from N5 to N3, without memorizing any N2 words. I think my progress is moderate; the July exam was originally just a trial for the December exam, but unexpectedly passed, which was quite a pleasant surprise 😄. Passing N2 and getting certified may not truly represent reaching N2 level, I will continue to study in the future. I am not considering N1 for now, will take a break and start preparing for the TOEIC exam!