Kanji Learning Strategies

Learning kanji can seem daunting, but with the right strategies, it becomes manageable and even enjoyable.

For Beginners (N5-N4)

1. Learn Radicals First

Understanding radicals (部首) helps you:

• Remember kanji more easily
• Guess meanings of unknown kanji
• Use kanji dictionaries effectively

2. Use Mnemonics

Create memorable stories for each kanji. Example:

• 休 (rest) = person (人) + tree (木) = person resting under a tree

3. Write, Write, Write

• Practice stroke order correctly
• Write each kanji 20 times minimum
• Use grid paper for proper proportions

For Intermediate (N3-N2)

1. Focus on Compounds

Learn kanji in compound words (熟語):

• 学生 (student) = learn + life
• 電話 (telephone) = electricity + speak

2. Study by Theme

Group kanji by topic:

• Weather: 雨、雪、雲、風
• Nature: 山、川、海、森

3. Read Extensively

• News articles (NHK Easy News)
• Manga with furigana
• Light novels

For Advanced (N1)

1. Study Etymology

Understanding kanji origins helps with:

• Multiple readings
• Nuanced meanings
• Related compounds

2. Read Without Furigana

Challenge yourself with:

• Newspapers
• Academic texts
• Literature

3. Learn Four-Character Idioms

Study 四字熟語:

• 一期一会 (once in a lifetime)
• 因果応報 (karma)

Universal Tips

Use Spaced Repetition

• Anki decks (WaniKani, Core 2K/6K)
• Review before forgetting
• Gradually increase intervals

Practice Recognition AND Production

• Reading kanji (recognition)
• Writing kanji (production)
• Both skills are important!

Be Patient and Consistent

• 10 kanji per day = 3,650 per year
• Quality over quantity
• Regular review is crucial

Recommended Resources

• Apps: WaniKani, Anki, Kanji Study
• Books: Remember the Kanji, Kodansha Kanji Learner's Dictionary
• Websites: Jisho.org, Kanji Koohii

Remember: There's no "best" method - find what works for YOU and stick with it!