Study Guide for the JLPT N5 Exam

2024/08/18

Preparing for the JLPT N5 exam requires dedication, the right study materials, and a solid study plan. This guide provides an overview of the JLPT system, details about the N5 level, and practical tips to help you effectively study for and pass the exam.

Whether you’re just starting your Japanese learning journey or aiming to prove your basic proficiency, the JLPT N5 is an important milestone.

Overview of JLPT N5

What is the JLPT?

The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a standardized test that measures the Japanese language proficiency of non-native speakers. It assesses not only the knowledge of vocabulary and grammar but also the ability to use that knowledge in actual communication.

The JLPT evaluates proficiency through three elements: “Language Knowledge,” “Reading,” and “Listening.” It is offered in five levels: N1, N2, N3, N4, and N5, with N1 being the most advanced and N5 the most basic.

To ensure fairness and accuracy, the JLPT uses “scaled scores” instead of raw scores based on the number of correct answers.

This allows for consistent measurement of Japanese language ability regardless of when the test is taken.

Passing the JLPT offers various advantages in Japan, such as earning points for preferential immigration treatment (N1 and N2), fulfilling requirements for taking national exams in medical and other professions (N1), and waiving the Japanese language test on the accreditation exam for completing junior high school level education (N1 and N2).

What level is the N5 exam?

The JLPT N5 tests a basic level of Japanese language proficiency.

It assesses the ability to understand some fundamental Japanese in everyday situations to a certain degree.

Sections of the N5 exam

Section	Question Types	Time	Score Range
Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) and Reading	Kanji reading, orthography, contextual expressions, paraphrasing, sentence grammar, text comprehension	60 min	0-120
Listening	Task-based comprehension, key point comprehension, verbal expressions, quick response	30 min	0-60
Total		90 min	0-180

To pass the N5 exam, you need an overall score of 80 or higher, with at least 38 points in the Language Knowledge and Reading section and 19 points in the Listening section.

What is covered on the N5 exam

• Reading: Understand typical words, sentences, and passages written in hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji used in daily life.
• Listening: Catch necessary information from short conversations spoken slowly in common everyday situations, such as in the classroom or personal life.

The exam covers approximately 800 vocabulary words and 100 kanji. The vocabulary focuses on the most commonly used words in Japanese.

The kanji tested are those naturally used in simple daily conversations, related to numbers, time, days of the week, family members, and basic verbs.

Basic grammar points tested include particle usage (は、が、を etc.) and conjugations of verbs and adjectives in present and past tenses. Examinees should be able to read and write short, simple sentences.

What is not covered on the N5 exam

The JLPT N5 DOES NOT test speaking ability. Theoretically, Japanese learners who are not yet comfortable speaking can still pass the exam if they have mastered the necessary vocabulary, kanji, and grammar.

However, speaking and conversation skills are still very important for actually living in Japan.

The N5 exam also does not cover very complex grammar, rare vocabulary, or advanced reading passages. The content is limited to basic, everyday Japanese.

In summary, the JLPT N5 evaluates elementary Japanese language knowledge – the first benchmark to aim for as a beginner Japanese learner.

With focused study of the core kanji, vocabulary and grammar, as well as practice with simple listening exercises, passing the N5 exam is an achievable goal.

Use this test to check your progress and build confidence as you start your Japanese learning journey.

How much study time is needed to pass the N5?

For those from kanji backgrounds (e.g., Chinese): 350 hours

According to self-reported data from JLPT examinees, learners with prior kanji knowledge, such as Chinese students, typically need around 350 hours of study time to pass the N5 exam.

For those not from kanji backgrounds: 462 hours

Students without prior kanji knowledge reported needing approximately 462 hours of study to pass the N5.

How to Prepare for the N5 Exam

Kanji and Vocabulary

The JLPT N5 covers around 100 kanji and 800 vocabulary words, in addition to hiragana and katakana.

While you don’t need to know all of them to pass, it’s impossible to predict exactly which ones will appear on the exam.

To effectively learn the necessary kanji and vocabulary, consider using:

• Kanji workbooks and worksheets that cover the core N5 kanji
• Vocabulary lists focusing on high-frequency words
• Flashcards (physical or digital) to review and memorize kanji and vocabulary

Consistent study and repetition are key to mastering the kanji and vocabulary needed for the N5 exam.

Grammar

The N5 grammar section tests basic particle usage (は、が、を, etc.) and conjugations of verbs and adjectives in present and past tenses.

To learn N5 grammar points, utilize resources such as:

• Japanese grammar guides and textbooks aimed at beginners
• Online articles and lessons explaining key grammatical concepts
• Practice exercises to reinforce sentence patterns and particle usage

Focus on understanding the core sentence structures and particles that form the foundation of basic Japanese grammar.

Listening

To prepare for the listening section, regularly practice with N5-level listening exercises and materials, such as:

• Japanese podcasts and audio lessons for beginners
• Listening comprehension activities in N5 prep books
• Online listening challenges and quizzes

Consistent listening practice will help you improve your ability to understand spoken Japanese and navigate the listening section of the exam.

In addition to self-study, consider enrolling in Japanese language courses (online or in-person) that are tailored to the N5 level. Experienced teachers can provide structured lessons, feedback, and support to keep you on track.

With dedicated study and practice in all areas – kanji, vocabulary, grammar, and listening – you’ll steadily progress towards your goal of passing the JLPT N5 exam.

Stay focused, use effective study methods, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance when needed. Your commitment will pay off on test day!

Here is the continuation of the article in English:

Helpful Study Materials for the JLPT N5

When preparing for the JLPT N5 exam, having the right study materials can make a big difference. Here are some recommended textbooks and resources to support your N5 studies:

Comprehensive Textbooks

“Minna no Nihongo” (Elementary 1)

Minna No Nihongo Elementary I Second Edition Main Text – Romanized Version (Japanese Edition)

This classic textbook series is widely used in Japanese language schools. “Elementary 1” covers the N5 level content. It offers grammar explanations in various languages, vocabulary books, teacher’s guides, and supplementary reading, listening, and practice exercises.

Pros:

• Offers comprehensive materials (reading, listening, practice exercises) to accompany the grammar textbook
• Widely used by teachers and educational institutions
• Many foreign teachers have experience using this series

Cons:

• Some vocabulary and expressions may be outdated
• Example sentences for certain grammar points can be awkward or unnatural
• Limited conversation and interaction practice

Publisher: 3A Network

“Marugoto” (A1, A2)

Marugoto Starter A1 A2 Katsudoo , Rikai

Developed by the Japan Foundation, this series focuses on practical communication skills. Completing the A1 and A2 level materials is considered equivalent to passing the N5 level.

Pros:

• Ideal for developing practical communication abilities
• Flexible usage – no need to follow the textbook in strict order
• Offers free online learning resources through the “Marugoto” website

Cons:

• Not suitable for JLPT test preparation classes focused on grammar
• Not ideal for learners who prefer to study grammar points individually
• As a newer series, it may be less readily adopted compared to “Minna no Nihongo”

Grammar-focused Textbooks

“TRY! N5”

Try! Japanese Language Proficiency Test N5 Revised Edition (Japanese Edition)

Part of a series covering N5 to N1 levels, this grammar textbook is available in English, Chinese, and Vietnamese.

It’s a good option for learners aiming to progress through the JLPT levels, as the “Minna no Nihongo” series only goes up to N4.

Pros:

• Grammar textbook series spanning N5 to N1 levels
• Free downloadable audio and vocabulary lists from the website
• Relatively easy difficulty level

Cons:

• Fewer supplementary materials compared to “Minna no Nihongo”
• Explanations and example sentences may be too brief for learners seeking in-depth study
• No conversation or interaction practice

Publisher: Ask Publishing

“Sou Matome N5”

NIHONGO SO-MATOME N5, + CD (GRAMMAR, VOCABULARY, READING, KANJI, LISTENING)

Another series by Ask Publishing covering N5 to N1 levels. “Sou Matome” offers separate textbooks for different skills (grammar, vocabulary, reading, etc.), and is designed as an easier introduction to each level compared to the “TRY!” series.

Pros:

• Grammar textbook series spanning N5 to N1 levels
• Skill-specific textbooks available (grammar, vocab, reading, etc.)
• Easy difficulty level, suitable as an introduction to a new level

Cons:

• Using only the “Sou Matome” series is insufficient for thorough JLPT preparation
• Some inaccuracies reported in the foreign language translations
• No conversation or interaction practice

Publisher: Ask Publishing

For English Speakers

“Genki 1”

Genki 1 Third Edition: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese 1 Textbook & Workbook Set

While less known in Japan, this series is popular among Japanese language schools overseas. “Genki 1” covers the N5 level and includes detailed English explanations, making it a good fit for learners from English-speaking countries or those proficient in English.

Pros:

• Detailed grammar explanations in English
• English translations for practice questions enhance clarity
• Comprehensive single volume for holistic study

Cons:

• Less suitable for learners who don’t understand English
• Includes romaji (Roman alphabet) furigana, which may slow progress in reading hiragana
• May not fully cover all N5 content (explanations can be somewhat thin)

Publisher: The Japan Times Publishing, Ltd.

When selecting study materials, consider your language background, learning style, and study goals.

A combination of comprehensive textbooks, grammar references, and skill-specific resources can provide a solid foundation for acing the JLPT N5 exam.

Boost Your JLPT N5 Prep with Nihongo Online School

As you embark on your JLPT N5 study journey, consider enhancing your learning experience with Nihongo Online School’s tailored Japanese lessons.

Our experienced teachers provide one-on-one online classes to help you improve your conversational skills and master the content needed for the N5 exam.

• Customized lesson plans based on your needs, goals, and schedule
• Conversation practice to build your speaking confidence
• Regular progress assessments using mock tests and our 10-step conversation level system
• Assigned homework to reinforce your understanding of grammar, vocabulary, and kanji
• Ongoing support and motivation from a dedicated instructor

Plus, with our 150-hour Nihongo Kick-off course, you’ll receive a certificate of completion that can aid in your application to study in Japan.

This comprehensive program combines 50 hours of online lessons with 100 hours of homework, setting you up for success on the JLPT N5 and beyond.

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