Countdown to the JLPT!

Starting today there are four weeks left until the JLPT test in the US! Hopefully by now if you’ve been studying, you have been able to absorb the material and practice it. Or have you? If your just starting the JLPT now, you may find yourself in over your head, unless you’ve had extensive Japanese experience before and just need to refresh your memory.

Regardless of your situation, now is a good time to make some last minute preparations:

• Don’t forget to get some No. 2 pencils (or HB pencils in the UK)!
• Do you have your test voucher?
• Do you have your identification ready? Review the JLPT test site for valid identification.
• Do you know where the test area is? Have you confirmed directions and transportation? Accommodations?
• Have you taken any practice tests yet? If not, do so right away! You can find old tests available for purchase online. This is worth the money spent.
• If you did take practice tests, did you evaluate your weak points? Listening? Reading Comprehension?
• If you can, focus on your weakest area right now. Don’t spend too much time on your strong points, or you get diminishing returns.

Before the day of the test, you might do one of two things depending on your personality:

1. Relax and get lots of sleep.
2. Cram all night, just in case.

Whatever works for you, just remember some advice:

• Sleep is very important. It will keep your mind focused, and not wandering. Caffeine is not a very good substitute.
• Eat a good meal before the test! Nothing too sweet, or you will get tired.
• Get to the test site early, so you won’t be rushed, or risk getting late.
• And most importantly, if you fail the test, you can always take it again, but this time with a lot more experience!

Although the test is a month away, you should now take time to prepare for the test itself. You’ve had time to study, so like a good athelete, visualize the day of the test, imagine success, and you’ll do fine.

Best of luck!