Study Tips – Sakura Saku

I Passed JLPT N1 in One Attempt: Here’s How I Did It

When I started learning Japanese, I never thought I would be aiming for N1, the highest and most difficult level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). But as I continued studying, I’ve grown to love the language even more until I developed a desire to reach N1.

It hasn’t been a year since I passed N2 (equivalent), but I wanted to challenge myself and see how far I could make it in my N1-level studies before I leave for Japan this year.

Surely, this was my first attempt at the N1-level exam, so the chances of passing it are extremely low. Perhaps even remote. Regardless, I decided to push myself and study as much as I can before the July 2022 test.

The result of all that hard work is a passing score for the JLPT N1 in just ONE attempt.

In this article, I’ll share the details of my preparation that helped me pull that off.

Why Mock Exams are Absolutely Needed to Score High on the JLPT

Have you studied Japanese for the past few months and now aiming for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)? Attending classes, reading textbooks and handouts, and answering some practice questions should be enough to pass the test with a good score, right?

Well, not necessarily.

In my article about JLPT test scores, I discussed extensively that the JLPT is a demanding test. You’ll need to do very well just to get a passing mark. Guessing the answers will not help, even if the JLPT is a multiple-choice test.

The key to passing the JLPT is practice. The adage, “Practice makes perfect,” still holds true. And one of the essential components of practice is a mock exam.

If you are serious about passing the JLPT, then I hope that this article will help you understand and appreciate mock exams. I highly recommend that you include them as part of your study regimen.

List of Recommended JLPT Review Books for N5-N4 Levels

If you have already spent a few months or a year studying Japanese, you might be already thinking of taking your very first attempt at the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT). The JLPT’s lowest level is N5 (Beginner), which is followed by N4 (Basic).

Taking the JLPT involves a lot of dedication, commitment, and hard work. While the N5 and N4 levels are far less demanding than the higher JLPT levels, some form of preparation will still be needed, especially if you care about the level of your performance.

Your likelihood of success at the JLPT will become higher if you (1) familiarize yourself with the form and content of the test, and (2) master Japanese language concepts.

The best way to do it? Use JLPT review books!