- Follow the right order: kana → pronunciation → phrases & words → grammar → kanji.
- Study a little every day instead of a lot once a week.
- Use spaced repetition for vocabulary and kanji.
- Listen daily and speak from day one, even alone.
- Pick one main path and stick to it; add extras for fun.
1. Learn things in the right order
Most beginners who give up start in the wrong place: kanji on day one, or months of romaji. The order that works:
The full step-by-step version is in our guide for absolute beginners.
2. Build a daily habit
Language memory needs repetition over time. Twenty minutes a day beats three hours on Sunday, because each day reactivates what you learned before. Tie your study to an existing habit: with your morning coffee, on the commute, before bed.
3. Review smart, not hard
Spaced repetition shows you each word right before you’d forget it, then waits longer each time. It’s the most efficient way to build a large vocabulary and to memorise kanji.
4. Get lots of input
You learn a language by understanding it. Listen every day, even when you only catch a few words: podcasts for learners, YouTube, anime with Japanese subtitles. More tips in Japanese listening practice.
5. Speak from day one
Say every new word and sentence out loud. Shadow audio. Later, find a language partner or tutor. Your mouth needs practice just as much as your brain.
6. One main path, plus extras
Jumping between apps, books and courses wastes time on beginnings. Choose one structured path as your backbone, and add fun extras like music, shows and games on top.
7. Set small, concrete goals
| Vague goal | Concrete goal |
|---|---|
| “Learn Japanese” | Read all hiragana by next Sunday |
| “Get better at kanji” | Learn 5 kanji a day this month |
| “Be able to talk” | Introduce myself without notes in 3 weeks |
| “Pass a test someday” | Register for JLPT N5 in December |
Curious how long each stage takes? Read how long it takes to learn Japanese.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to learn Japanese?
Learn in the right order (kana, pronunciation, phrases and vocabulary, grammar, then kanji), study a little every day, use spaced repetition for review, listen daily and speak from the start.
Can you learn Japanese with an app?
Apps are great for daily practice and review, especially for kana and vocabulary. Combine them with listening practice and real conversation for the best results.
Should I learn kanji first?
No. Start with hiragana and katakana, then add kanji gradually once you can read kana comfortably.