How to Start Learning Japanese from NOTHING

TL;DR

Learn Japanese basics with actionable beginner steps outlined here.

Transcript

okay so i got this comment from a viewer a little while back great vid as always thanks myron i really appreciate that there's more can we get a realistic day in the life of studying japanese tokyo like i am so lost on where to even begin i feel you myron you finish watching all four seasons of haikyuu and you think i want to be a japanese high sch... Read More

Key Insights

• The first step in learning Japanese is mastering hiragana and katakana, each containing 46 letters. Recognizing and writing them correctly is crucial.
• Japanese proficiency is divided into five levels, with N5 being the most basic. To master N5, you need to learn 700 vocabulary words, 100 kanji, and basic grammar.
• Using apps like Anki and kanji study can significantly aid in learning vocabulary and kanji through spaced repetition and practice.
• Proper pronunciation is essential in Japanese, and resources like JapanesePod101 can provide valuable tips and techniques.
• Learning Japanese grammar is made easier with resources like Tae Kim's Guide, which offers a logical progression and example sentences.
• Consistent daily study, even for just 20 to 30 minutes, can help establish a solid foundation in three to four months.
• Many learners give up at the hiragana and katakana stage, but perseverance at this initial stage is key to progressing in Japanese.
• The speaker is preparing for a move to Japan and shares personal experiences and updates, adding a relatable and motivational aspect to the learning journey.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the first step in learning Japanese according to the video?

The first step in learning Japanese is to master hiragana and katakana. These are the two phonetic alphabets of the Japanese language, each containing 46 characters. Learning these alphabets is crucial as they form the foundation for reading and writing in Japanese. The video suggests using resources like JapanesePod101 to help with memorization and stroke order.

Q: How does the video suggest learning vocabulary effectively?

The video recommends using the Anki flashcard app for effective vocabulary learning. Anki employs a spaced repetition system, which helps reinforce memory retention over time. The video also suggests using a specific vocabulary deck from Nihongo Shark that contains N5 level vocabulary, complete with pronunciation and example sentences, to aid in the learning process.

Q: What resources does the video suggest for learning Japanese grammar?

For learning Japanese grammar, the video suggests using Tae Kim's Guide to Japanese Grammar. This resource provides a logical progression of grammar topics, complete with explanations and example sentences. It helps learners understand how Japanese grammar works and offers a structured approach to learning, which can be supplemented with additional online searches for further clarification if needed.

Q: What is the recommended daily study time for mastering N5 Japanese?

The video recommends a daily study time of 20 to 30 minutes to master N5 Japanese. This consistent, modest amount of time each day can help learners establish a solid foundation in the language within three to four months. The speaker emphasizes that while the timeline might seem long, it's impressive given the complexity of the Japanese language and the limited daily time commitment.

Q: What apps are recommended for learning kanji?

For learning kanji, the video recommends using the Kanji Study app for Android users and the Study Japanese Kanji app for iPhone users. The Kanji Study app offers a section specifically for N5 kanji, and the Study Japanese Kanji app, although it costs $2.79, is considered a worthwhile investment for serious learners. These apps help with both recognition and understanding of kanji meanings.

Q: How does the video address the challenge of learning Japanese pronunciation?

The video emphasizes the importance of proper Japanese pronunciation and suggests resources like JapanesePod101 to help learners improve their pronunciation skills. These resources provide tips and techniques for mastering the sounds of the Japanese language, which is crucial for effective communication and understanding. The speaker also mentions their own video on speaking Japanese more fluently as an additional resource.

Q: What motivational aspect does the speaker add to the learning process?

The speaker adds a motivational aspect by sharing personal updates about their upcoming move to Japan. This personal journey adds relatability and inspiration for learners, showing that the effort put into learning Japanese can lead to real-life experiences and opportunities. The speaker expresses excitement and nervousness about the move, encouraging viewers to follow along on their social media for updates.

Q: What is the speaker’s advice for those who find memorizing characters boring?

The speaker advises that if someone finds memorizing characters boring, they might need to reconsider their interest in learning Japanese. Learning hiragana and katakana is just the beginning, and kanji presents an even greater challenge. However, the speaker encourages perseverance, as mastering these characters is essential for progressing in the language and sets learners ahead of many who give up early in the process.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The video provides a step-by-step guide for absolute beginners to start learning Japanese, emphasizing the importance of mastering hiragana and katakana. It suggests using apps and resources like JapanesePod101 for pronunciation and learning alphabets.

• To achieve N5 proficiency, learners must focus on vocabulary, kanji, and grammar. Tools like Anki and Nihongo Shark are recommended for effective vocabulary study, while Tae Kim's Guide is suggested for understanding grammar.

• Consistency is key, with a suggested daily study time of 20 to 30 minutes. The speaker shares personal updates about moving to Japan, adding a motivational aspect to the learning process.