My Experience Taking the JLPT

In December 2021, I embarked on a journey to take the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N5 in Miami, Florida. In this article, I will share my experience, tips, and insights to help future test-takers prepare for their own JLPT adventures.

The Video

Firstly, if your interested in hearing from me directly about my experience, here is a very long one hour video, of me telling my story in great detail. At the time I did this purely for myself, so that I would remember as much as possible about my experience, but posted it online for everyone to see. So if your into that sort of thing: Here is the YouTube Video.

Preparing for the Test

The JLPT is a challenging test, and you need to be well-prepared in order to succeed. Here are some tips I found useful while preparing for the N5 exam:

1. Consistent practice: Practice your Japanese language skills regularly to build a strong foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and kanji.

2. Flashcards and spaced repetition: Use tools like Anki for spaced repetition to help you remember new vocabulary and kanji more effectively.

3. Focus on listening and reading: The N5 exam will test your listening and reading abilities, so make sure you spend ample time improving these skills.

4. Don’t cram: Don’t try to learn new concepts just a week before the exam. Instead, focus on reviewing and reinforcing what you already know.

Test Day: What to Expect

On the day of the test, it’s important to arrive well-prepared and well-rested. Here are some things to consider on the test day:

1. Arrive early: Plan to arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before the exam starts to ensure you have enough time to find your room and settle in.

2. Bring necessary documents: Don’t forget to bring your test voucher, a valid photo ID, and any other required documents.

3. Pack essential items: Bring multiple pencils, an eraser, a sharpener, a watch, and a water bottle. Remember that you cannot use electronic devices, including smartphones and smartwatches, during the test.

4. Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and consider bringing a sweater or light jacket, as the temperature in the test room might be colder than you expect.

5. Familiarize yourself with the test format: The JLPT N5 has three sections – language knowledge, reading, and listening. Know the format of each section and the time allotted to complete it.

6. Stay calm and focused: Keep a positive mindset and don’t let nerves get the best of you. Trust your preparation and give your best effort.

After the Test: Reflecting on the Experience

Taking the JLPT N5 was a rewarding experience for me, and it motivated me to continue learning Japanese. Here are some thoughts and tips for those considering taking the test:

1. Celebrate your progress: Remember to celebrate your accomplishments and the progress you’ve made in your language learning journey

2. Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses: After the test, spend some time thinking about the areas where you excelled and those where you struggled. This will help you identify what to focus on in your future studies.

3. Don’t be afraid of kanji: Kanji might seem daunting at first, but with consistent practice and tools like spaced repetition (e.g., Anki), you’ll start to grasp it and become more proficient.

4. Set new goals: If you found the JLPT helpful in guiding your studies, consider setting new goals, such as taking a higher level of the test or focusing on improving your speaking abilities.

5. Share your experience: Sharing your experience with others who might be considering taking the JLPT can be beneficial for both you and them. It allows you to reflect on your journey and offer valuable insights to others.

I hope my experience with taking the JLPT N5 in Miami, Florida, in December 2021, has been helpful to you. If you have any questions or would like more information, feel free to reach out to me here on my blog or through my social media channels. Good luck in your language learning journey and your future endeavors with the JLPT!

“Behind the Scenes”

Here is a picture of me relaxing on the Biscayne Beach listening to JLPT N5 Japanese Verbs Video, trying to cram or at least keep my mind refreshed before the exam the next day.

I was really determined to pass, so I decided to take a few days off before the test to relax and prepare myself.

I flew to Florida and rented a car to get to a small island off the coast of Miami called The Key of Biscayne. It was the perfect spot for me to unwind and focus on my studies. I stayed in an AirBNB and took long walks on the beach every morning. It was really nice to have some time to myself before the big test.

On the day of the test, I drove to the center and ended up making a friend. We just started chatting, and it turned out that she was also taking the JLPT for the first time. We exchanged study tips and notes, and I feel like it really helped me to relax and feel more confident going into the exam.

I ended up passing the test, but more importantly, I made a really good friend. We still keep in touch and talk all the time. It’s amazing how a small act of kindness, like asking someone how they’re doing, can lead to such a great connection.

So, if you’re ever in a new place or situation, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone. You never know who you might meet or what kind of impact they could have on your life.