Best Way to Learn Japanese and Top 5 Learning Apps

Introduction

• Learning Japanese is challenging, with many different suggested methods.
• Purpose of the video: Cut through the noise and provide a clear answer.
• Presenter’s credentials: 10 years of language learning experience with respectable accomplishments.
• Goal: Learn common mistakes, avoid time-wasting methods, and find the path to fluency.

Language Learning Formula

• Efficiency x Consistency = Progress.
• Progress in learning a language depends on how efficient your method is and how consistently you work at it.

Duolingo

• Pros:
  • Good for beginners.
  • Exposes learners to basic sounds, sentences, words, and phrases.
  • Encourages consistency with streaks and engaging content.
• Cons:
  • Low rating for progress beyond the beginner level.
  • Not suitable for substantial progress in Japanese.
• Conclusion:
  • Good for starting a habit but not for advanced learning.

Top 5 Apps for Progress in Japanese

1. Migi JLPT

• Target Audience:
  • Learners aiming to pass the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test).
  • Comprehensive features for reading, grammar, vocabulary, and listening.
• Features:
  • Custom study plans based on proficiency tests and timelines.
  • Full explanations of vocabulary and grammar.
  • Custom reminders and 42 mock tests.
• Pros:
  • Acts like a personal tutor.
  • Highly effective for JLPT preparation.
• Cons:
  • Some issues with English explanations.
• Overall: Highly recommended for JLPT preparation.

2. YouTube

• Purpose:
  • Utilized for listening practice, grammar, and textbook learning.
  • Offers a varied range of content.
• Tips:
  • Find favorite series or creators and incorporate them into your routine.
  • Suitable for all levels.

3. Hello Talk

• Purpose:
  • Language exchange app for interaction with native speakers.
• Features:
  • User profiles indicate language skill levels.
  • Social media features for cultural exchange and practice.
  • Personality types can be listed to find similar partners.
  • Options to join chat rooms as a listener.
• Pros:
  • Facilitates daily conversation practice and cultural exchange.
• Cons:
  • Should not be used as a dating app.
• Overall: Great for practicing conversation and building connections.

4. Satori Reader

• Purpose:
  • Reading practice with curated Japanese content.
• Features:
  • Stories categorized by ability level and genre.
  • Audio read-along and sound effects.
  • Built-in flashcard system for vocab context learning.
  • Instant kanji translations and adjustable difficulty levels.
• Recommended For:
  • Those interested in Japanese media like manga and video games.
• Overall: Highly beneficial for reading and kanji learning.

5. Anki

• Purpose:
  • Flashcard app powered by a space repetition system (SRS).
• Features:
  • Shows flashcards before forgetting point to reinforce memory.
  • Customizable and shareable decks.
  • Many useful add-ons.
• Pros:
  • Great for serious learners and character learning (Hiragana, Katakana, Kanji).
• Cons:
  • Punishing for inconsistent users.
• Overall: Best for those serious about language learning goals.

Conclusion

• Each app has unique strengths and is suitable for different aspects of learning Japanese.
• Combining these tools can optimize learning efficiency and progress.
• Watch additional videos for deeper insights and specific tutorials on apps like Anki.