Introduction
If you’ve already tackled the basics of Japanese grammar and vocabulary at the N5 level, then JLPT N4 is your next big milestone. Passing JLPT N4 not only demonstrates that you have a solid foundation in everyday Japanese but also proves you’re ready to engage in slightly more complex conversations, read short passages, and grasp intermediate-level grammar.
When I first decided to take the JLPT N4, I remember feeling both excited and overwhelmed. I wanted a clear roadmap—a single guide that would break down all the essential grammar, vocabulary, kanji, and study techniques. That’s precisely why I’ve created this Complete JLPT N4 Study Guide: to help you focus on what really matters and pass the exam with confidence.
In this post, you’ll learn about:
- What to expect in the JLPT N4 exam format.
- Key grammar points, vocabulary, and kanji you need to know.
- Study strategies and resources to make your learning more efficient.
- Personal tips and insights from my own JLPT journey.
Let’s dive in and get you fully prepared to conquer JLPT N4!
1. Understanding the JLPT N4 Exam Structure
Before anything else, let’s clarify what the JLPT N4 covers. The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is divided into multiple levels, with N5 being the most basic and N1 being the most advanced. N4 sits just above N5, so expect:
- Vocabulary (文字・語彙): Familiar daily-life words, slightly more advanced than N5.
- Grammar & Reading (文法・読解): Grammar points that allow you to read short passages and understand everyday topics.
- Listening (聴解): Conversations that involve polite and casual Japanese, often spoken at a moderate speed.
Time Allocation usually looks like this:
- Vocabulary Section: ~25 minutes
- Grammar/Reading Section: ~55 minutes
- Listening Section: ~35 minutes
(Exact times may vary slightly depending on official guidelines. Always check the JLPT Official Website for the latest updates.)
2. Core JLPT N4 Grammar
Grammar at N4 builds upon the fundamentals from N5. You’ll see more verb conjugations, conditionals, comparisons, and some polite/humble forms. Examples include:
- 〜なければならない (nakereba naranai): Must do something.
- 〜たり〜たりする (tari tari suru): Listing multiple actions.
- 〜てみる (te miru): Trying something.
- 〜すぎる (sugiru): “Too much” of something.
- 〜ほうがいい (hou ga ii): Giving advice or suggestions.
If you need a comprehensive grammar list, check out our JLPT N4 Grammar List (Insert your actual link here), which covers 84+ essential grammar points with examples and explanations. Make sure to practice each structure in short sentences and daily conversations. I personally found it helpful to speak out loud while studying grammar—this way, it sticks in your memory better and prepares you for the listening section as well.
3. Essential JLPT N4 Vocabulary
A strong vocabulary is key to passing N4. Expect around 600–700 words that you need to recognize in reading passages and dialogues. Topics often include:
- Daily routines (家事, 通学, 通勤)
- Health and illness (病気, けが)
- School and work (学校生活, 会社, 会議)
- Travel (乗り換える, 旅行, 予約)
- Society (社会, 文化, 習慣)
We’ve curated a JLPT N4 Vocabulary List (600 Words) to help you focus on the most important words. Here’s what I recommend:
- Spaced Repetition Flashcards: Tools like Anki or Memrise to review words daily.
- Contextual Learning: Read short articles or watch easy Japanese videos using these words.
- Listening Drills: Hearing new words in context helps you retain them faster.
4. Kanji for JLPT N4
While N5 introduces around 100 basic kanji, N4 expands that to roughly 300 total kanji (including the ones from N5). Here’s how I approached it:
- Group Similar Kanji: Study them in thematic sets (e.g., kanji for time, kanji for directions).
- Write Them Out: Handwriting kanji helps reinforce stroke order and recognition.
- Use Mnemonics: Create stories or visuals for tricky kanji.
For a quick reference, check out our JLPT N4 Kanji List, which breaks down the most common kanji you’ll see in exam questions. Make sure to learn on-yomi and kun-yomi readings alongside key vocabulary words containing each kanji.
5. Study Resources & Techniques
In my experience, combining textbook study with immersive practice yields the best results. Here’s what worked for me:
- Textbooks & Workbooks
- Minna no Nihongo (初級 II) – Great for structured lessons.
- Genki II – Ideal for grammar explanations and reading practice.
- Online Platforms
- NHK Easy News – Simplified articles to boost reading skills.
- JLPT Sensei – Grammar explanations, practice exercises.
- Tae Kim’s Guide – A free, comprehensive resource for grammar.
- Listening Practice
- Japanese podcasts or YouTube channels aimed at beginners/intermediate learners.
- Shadowing: Repeat after native speakers to improve pronunciation and intonation.
- Practice Tests
- Use official JLPT sample questions or reputable mock exams.
- JLPT Official Website – Download sample papers and audio.
- Consistency
- Set aside 30–60 minutes daily for grammar and vocabulary.
- Incorporate listening or reading practice in short bursts throughout the day.
- Track your progress with a simple study planner.
6. Creating a Personal Study Schedule
Week 1–2:
- Focus on reviewing N5 basics to ensure a solid foundation.
- Begin N4 grammar (e.g., ~5 new points per week).
- Start kanji drills (10–15 new kanji per week).
Week 3–4:
- Ramp up vocabulary learning. Aim for ~20 new words daily.
- Practice reading short texts (e.g., NHK Easy News).
- Do a few listening exercises every other day.
Week 5–6:
- Increase grammar practice with exercises and sample sentences.
- Start taking mini mock tests for listening and reading.
- Focus on problem areas (e.g., certain kanji groups or tricky grammar).
Week 7–8:
- Consolidate what you’ve learned.
- Take full-length mock exams to simulate real test conditions.
- Review frequent mistakes from your practice tests.
7. Test Day Tips
- Arrive Early: Give yourself enough time to settle in and relax.
- Skim the Questions: Quickly look over each section so you know what to expect.
- Time Management: Don’t spend too long on a single tricky question. Move on and come back if time allows.
- Listen Carefully: For the listening section, keep your mind focused—once the audio moves on, there’s no replay.
- Stay Calm: If you’ve followed a consistent study routine, you’re ready!
8. Related Resources & Backlinks
- JLPT N4 Grammar List – Detailed breakdown of N4 grammar points.
- JLPT N4 Vocabulary List (600 Words) – Essential words for the exam.
- JLPT N4 Kanji Guide – Must-know characters for N4-level.
- JLPT Official Website – Exam dates, registration details, and sample questions.
These links will give you in-depth resources to complement this guide. Bookmark them and refer back whenever you need clarification or extra practice.
9. Staying Motivated
Studying for a language exam can sometimes feel isolating or repetitive. Here’s how I stayed motivated during my N4 prep:
- Celebrate Small Wins: Each time you master a new grammar point or kanji set, reward yourself (maybe with a favorite snack or a short gaming break).
- Find a Study Buddy: Whether online or in-person, having someone to share progress with can boost accountability.
- Immerse Yourself: Watch anime, drama, or YouTube channels in Japanese. Even if you only catch half the words, it helps reinforce what you’ve studied.
- Remember Your ‘Why’: Are you aiming to travel to Japan? Hoping to read manga without translations? Keep that goal front and center.
Conclusion
The JLPT N4 is a significant stepping stone in your Japanese learning journey. It bridges the gap between beginner-level survival phrases and more complex everyday interactions. By focusing on key grammar structures, essential vocabulary, core kanji, and consistent practice, you’ll find that N4 is not only achievable but also a fun challenge.
Remember, this guide is just a starting point—your dedication and consistent effort are what truly matter. Use the resources and tips provided here, practice regularly, and you’ll soon see your Japanese skills flourish. When test day arrives, you’ll be ready to ace the JLPT N4 and move confidently toward the next level.
Good luck, and happy studying! If you have any questions or want to share your progress, feel free to reach out or leave a comment. We’re all in this language-learning journey together. がんばりましょう！
