Learn Kanji

Tactic #1: Throw the traditional learning order out the window:

The first step is to get familiar with the first 100 to 200 Kanji which are commonly used in Japanese, so that you can get started. But then, step right in front of the ones which are difficult, even if they seldom show up, as you encounter them in your studying. When you begin to do this, it will probably not feel easy, but you cut out the part of you that says "Oh that's a tough Kanji, I'll wait till later to learn it," so you will actually end up learning more Kanji faster.

Tactic #2: Memorize the composing parts:

In the dictionary, there are 20 or 30 of the 214 radicals that are used more commonly than others. Memorizing them means knowing most of Kanji, or at least being able to see the big picture. You will become quick at recognizing new kanji with less effort. The radicals which make up the new Kanji will help you figure out what the Kanji means. This tactic can be named "chunking", and learning 3-5 radicals is easier than learning 15 Kanji. The next thing you should do is just to put the radicals together.

Tactic #3: Get the tough stuff out of the way first

This tactic focuses on the written Kanji. You should try to take the time to read something in Japanese each day to improve your Japanese. Getting familiar with the way Japanese printed writing works will help you understand common applications of each Kanji you see. You should be able to get a decent understanding of Japanese on your own after you've been doing this for awhile.

Tactic #4: Read out loud:

When you are learning Kanji, you need to focus on three things: recognizing the figure, understanding what it means, and saying it correctly. As long as you aren't studying in the library, go ahead and practice reading out loud. If you read aloud, you handle the three key components at the same time.

Kanji learning is tough, but you can manage it with some determination. The tips given in this article will make your learning easier.