Hi everyone so I wanted to ask for any recommendations to learn Japanese better and efficiently because I started a few months ago and life got busy and I couldn’t continue, but I knew some basic stuff but I was using duolingo and I’m sure you guys know that’s not the best way to learn and there are probably way better apps and software to learn! So if anyone wants to give me some recs I’d appreciate it 🙂
7 comments
r/learnjapanese
I use Duolingo to brush up on the basics and occasionally pick up new vocabulary that I didn’t previously know. It may not be ideal but it’s worth continuing to use it, IMO. I’ve also used Rosetta Stone, which is seriously overpriced, and Rocket Languages, which was a bit too basic. Of the three I like Duolingo the best because of the way the lessons are presented and the fact that it’s ad supported if you don’t want to pay a subscription fee.
Lots of resources on r/learnjapanese but the biggest thing would be just to go out and use the language.
You’re in Japan right? You can practice every time you go out the door. Pick a scenario (getting a haircut, ordering a meal, all the way up to harder things like buying a new phone with contract, doing your taxes), practice the vocab and go try it.
I’ve been really finding the Kumon correspondence course helpful, as I am working on reading. It’s about 1 man per month so not cheap as compared to apps, but cheaper than enrolling in a school. For something cheaper and more social, your local community center or international center likely has free or very cheap lessons up to around level N2.
I’ve used a few podcasts. Great for when you’re on the road/out and about
If you don’t mind learning from a textbook, Genki I and II are a good start! They’ll teach you the basics
I break down my study patterns into a few groups.
1. Study mode. Textbook study. 45-90 minutes of drilling kanji, vocab, grammar etc. You didn’t mention your current level, but head to the bookstore and find textbooks for the JLPT level that you would want to test for when the JLPT comes around in summer or winter.
2. In transit, or waiting. There are a number of good flashcard apps, and language drills. Mazii, Anki, and Kanji study are 3 apps to just drill with when you have time on the train or bus or are just waiting. AnkiWeb has sets you can download that pair up with common textbooks, for additional reinforcement.
3. Entertainment. You will get tired of study. There will be times when another flashcard seems impossible. Finding a good anime or drama on CrunchyRoll or other steaming can keep you immersed while tricking your brain that your just having fun and relaxing.