The Japanese Language Proficiency Test, or JLPT, is a standardized exam that measures a person’s proficiency in the Japanese language. There are five levels of the test, with N4 being the fourth-highest level. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what it means to have a Japanese language level of N4 and what it takes to achieve it.

What is JLPT N4?

JLPT N4 is a basic level of the exam, and it measures a person’s ability to understand and use basic Japanese in a variety of everyday situations. This level is intended for those who have some basic knowledge of Japanese, and it is generally considered to be equivalent to a level of fluency that would be useful for basic communication and understanding daily life situations in Japan.

What are the requirements for achiving JLPT N4?

To pass JLPT N4, a candidate must have a good understanding of basic Japanese grammar, vocabulary, and kanji. They must also be able to read and understand simple written materials and have basic listening comprehension skills.

How to pass JLPT N4: –

JLPT N4 exam is total of 180 marks, it is a MCQ type exam containing 3 sections, first section is of vocabulary plus kanji, second section is of grammar and passage (dokkai)and third section is of listening. every section is of 60 marks weightage you need to pass in every section for passing the exam. The passing criteria for every section are to get minimum 19 marks out of 60 marks and for passing overall your addition of marks should be more than 90 then you will pass the exam.

Some examples of the skills required for JLPT N4 include:

• Understanding basic grammar structures and being able to use them in writing and speaking.
• Remember kanjis: N4 contains all the kanjis of JLPT n5 and additional 150 kanjis each kanji makes 2-3 kanjis so there are around 700 kanji words you need to remember for N4 level.
• Having a basic vocabulary and being able to read and understand simple written materials, such as advertisements and short articles.
• Being able to read and understand basic kanji, including commonly used characters.
• Having basic listening comprehension skills, including being able to understand simple conversations and announcements.

How to pass JLPT N4?

Achieving JLPT N4 requires a lot of study and practice. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the exam:

• Study grammar: Focus on mastering basic grammar structures, such as verb conjugation, adjectives, and particles.
• Expand your vocabulary: Build your vocabulary by studying common words and phrases used in everyday conversations and written materials. There are 850 -900 additional vocab for N4 level.
• Practice reading: Read a variety of simple materials, including advertisements, simple articles, and short stories. Focus on understanding the main ideas and key details.
• Just like N5, you can prefer Minna no nihongo or kanzen master for N4, if you are referring Minna no nihongo, try to understand all the grammar patterns explained in its grammar and English translation book. Then solve all the Renshyu b questions and Mondai, if you do this your vocabulary and grammar both will be much improved than before.
• Practice listening: Listen to Japanese music, watch Japanese television shows and movies, and practice listening to everyday conversations.
• Watch Anime: Here at N4 level you can watch anime which are having easy to understand conversation, I will suggest to watch One piece, Naruto which are quite big anime to watch and intriguing as well.
• Take practice exams: Practice exams are an excellent way to assess your progress and identify areas where you need to improve. Take as many practice exams as possible to get used to the format and timing of the exam. On internet it’s not easy to find actual JLPT question papers as of now so you can solve question papers from some apps available like Todai Japanese, JLPT test, the premium membership for lifetime is quite cheap as well.

Conclusion

JLPT N4 is a basic level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, and it requires a good understanding of basic Japanese grammar, vocabulary, and kanji. Achieving N4 requires effort and dedication, but with the right approach, it is possible. By studying grammar, expanding your vocabulary, practicing reading and listening, and taking practice exams, you can improve your Japanese language skills and work towards achieving N4.