Should I use Genki or Japanese From Zero?

Genki

- **Target audience**: College students, serious learners - **Approach**: Comprehensive, fast-paced - **Content**: N5-N4 in 2 books - **Format**: Textbook + workbook (separate) - **Resources**: Answer key available, many community resources - **Price**: ~$50-60 per book

Japanese From Zero (JFZ)

- **Target audience**: Self-studiers, absolute beginners - **Approach**: Gradual, conversational focus - **Content**: N5 in books 1-3, continuing series - **Format**: Integrated workbook exercises - **Resources**: Free YouTube video series by author - **Price**: ~$30-35 per book

Choose Genki if

- You want efficient JLPT preparation - You can handle faster pace - You have some language learning experience - You prefer comprehensive grammar explanations - You're in a class or have study partners

Choose JFZ if

- You're an absolute beginner - You prefer slower, gentler progression - You learn well from video content - You want integrated writing practice - You're studying completely alone

Key Differences

Honest Assessment

- Genki is more efficient for JLPT goals - JFZ is more approachable for nervous beginners - Both cover similar content, just differently paced - You can switch after Book 1 if needed - Finishing either series prepares you for intermediate study

Best Practice

Complete ONE series fully rather than switching between them.