Reviewed byJLPTBooks Editorial Team|Last updatedJan 15, 2025

JLPT N4 textbook cover: Making Sense of Japanese by Jay Rubin

基N4

Book Details

4.8

Level:N4
Author:Jay Rubin
Publisher:Kodansha USA
Pages:144
Price:
¥2,400
Prices may vary

Why This Book?

Best for: Elementary learners who have completed basic Japanese study and want to advance to more conversational Japanese.

Avoid if: You haven't mastered N5 basics yet

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JLPT N4 Textbook

Making Sense of Japanese

By Jay Rubin

Clear explanations of tricky Japanese concepts like wa/ga, passive voice, and more. Great for intermediate learners.

Elementary

2-3 months

Expert Reviewed

Why is Making Sense of Japanese recommended for N4?

Making Sense of Japanese is widely recommended for JLPT N4 preparation due to its comprehensive coverage of essential grammar points, vocabulary, and reading practice. It provides clear explanations and plenty of exercises to help reinforce your learning.

Who Is This Book For?

Elementary learners who have completed basic Japanese study and want to advance to more conversational Japanese.

Study Plan for Making Sense of Japanese

For JLPT N4, this book should have a clear job in your routine. The notes below are based on its level, category, catalog details, and the strengths and limitations listed in this review.

Best role in your study stack

Making Sense of Japanese can serve as a main JLPT N4 study resource when you pair its explanations with regular recall, timed questions, and mistake review.

How to use it each week

Use Making Sense of Japanese in two or three focused sessions per week, then reserve one separate review block for missed questions, unclear examples, and vocabulary you could not recall quickly.

What to pair with it

Pair it with one skill-specific resource for your weakest area, usually reading speed, listening accuracy, grammar distinction, vocabulary recall, or kanji recognition.