Japanese isn’t stagnant. Despite being around for thousands of years, it is in a constant state of flux. Even more so in recent years with the information revolution and the invention of the Gyaru. On top of that, to keep up with a language you have to keep up with the country’s culture, and how it also changes. Finally, to add one more time consuming … Continue reading →
Fluency? Everyone wants that. Fast. As fast as possible. Why go slow when you can go fast? How fast is that? How fast can you become fluent? I’ve talked about it a bit. But these were averages when I wrote the article. If you put your all into it, how fast can you do it now? Many people who study Japanese are competitive. Japanese is a game … Continue reading →
Japanese levels. Seemingly just for fun, yet so important at the same time. Everyone wants to know how good they were, how good they have become, and how much possible good that still awaits them. The level guide on this site has been a major pillar here since the site was first created. Remember the name of this site? But times change. Thoughts change. And … Continue reading →
To play the game, you have to know how strong you have become. Where do you stand? 01: Newbie (~1 week) Getting your first study materials together Setting your goals and motivation Mentally preparing yourself for the massive challenge ahead of you Learning how to efficiently use your new tools 05: Beginner (~1.5 months) Learned how to read, write and pronounce the hiragana and katakana Started … Continue reading →
The Beginner phase. You are full of hopes and dreams. New textbooks and programs. Ideals and magic are in the air. You have just started learning Japanese. And already… You want to be out of the beginner phase as soon as possible. Who wants to be a beginner after all? When you can be something more. You want to be fluent in Japanese, not a … Continue reading →
Why are you studying Japanese? To understand anime/manga? To get a job in Japan? To appreciate the music? To play video games in their original form? All fine goals. But eventually you come to a strange crossroads. You’ve accomplished what you’ve set out to do. Now what? The Mid Level Blues (usually around level 20-30) is that downer phase between having a strong foundation … Continue reading →
You are struggling. You are having problems enjoying your studying. Your fun is limited. You feel like you have been going at it for long enough, but aren’t happy. When is your Japanese ability gonna get better? When are you going to be satisfied that you decided to start studying in the first place? Will you ever reach your Japanese Payoff Point? It can be … Continue reading →
The ultimate question. This is the first thing you’ll wonder before you even touch a textbook. Time is the most valuable resource we have in our life and we we want to know where it is best invested, and if the payoff is worth the cost. Am I about to answer the number one question in a clear and convincing way for all those studying Japanese? Maybe… … Continue reading →
