COMMON MISTAKES STUDENTS MAKE IN THE JLPT JAPANESE TEST

Common Mistakes Students Make in the JLPT Japanese Test

Common Mistakes Students Make in the JLPT Japanese Test

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The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a standardized exam that evaluates your ability to understand and use Japanese. It is held twice a year and offers five levels, from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced). While many students prepare rigorously, common mistakes students make during preparation and on exam day can still impact their scores. Recognizing and avoiding these mistakes is crucial for success in the JLPT.

At TLS – The Japanese Language School, we specialize in helping learners master every aspect of the JLPT. Our expert instructors guide you through the exam structure, scoring system, and common pitfalls, ensuring you are fully prepared to succeed. Join TLS to gain the confidence and skills needed to ace your JLPT exam with a high score.

In this guide, we will explore the most common JLPT Japanese test mistakes, explain how score calculation and scaled scoring work, and offer actionable tips to help you avoid exam pitfalls.

Top Common Mistakes to Avoid in the JLPT Exam


At TLS – The Japanese Language School, we help you avoid the common mistakes that many JLPT test takers face. With expert teachers and a proven curriculum tailored for all JLPT levels, TLS ensures you build a strong foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and listening skills. Join TLS to boost your confidence and achieve your desired JLPT score with ease. Start your journey to success today!

1. Misunderstanding the JLPT Structure


One of the most frequent errors students make is not understanding the structure of the test. Each JLPT level is divided into three sections:

  • Language Knowledge (Vocabulary and Grammar)

  • Reading

  • Listening


How to Avoid:



  • Take time to review the official JLPT test format for your level.

  • Use sample papers and mock exams to simulate the real test environment.

  • Familiarise yourself with the time allocation for each section to improve pacing.


2. Ignoring the Importance of Scaled Scores


Many students focus on the number of correct answers without understanding how JLPT scores are scaled. JLPT uses a scaled scoring system, meaning your raw score (the number of correct answers) is converted into a scaled score between 0 and 180.

JLPT Scaled Score Breakdown:



  • Each section is scaled independently.

  • Passing requires both total score and sectional score thresholds to be met.

  • For example, in JLPT N2, even if you score 100 overall but fail to meet the sectional minimum for listening, you will not pass.


Prepare for the upcoming test with our detailed JLPT July Exam 2025 Guide covering syllabus, tips, and schedule.

How to Avoid:



  • Do not neglect any section. Equal preparation is essential.

  • Review past JLPT result breakdowns to understand how scores were distributed.

  • Practice each section with equal intensity, especially your weaker areas.


3. Relying Too Heavily on Kanji and Vocabulary


Some test-takers overemphasize kanji memorisation and vocabulary drills, assuming it will carry them through all sections. However, grammar understanding, reading comprehension, and listening skills are equally tested.

How to Avoid:



  • Use a balanced study plan that includes grammar, reading comprehension, and listening practice.

  • Instead of isolated kanji, study them in context using JLPT-aligned reading materials.

  • Practice listening with authentic Japanese audio content like news, anime, or podcasts.


4. Skipping Listening Practice


Listening is often overlooked, especially by self-studying learners. Many underestimate this section until they face it in the actual test and struggle to follow fast, native-level speech.

How to Avoid:



  • Incorporate daily listening practice using JLPT mock tests and real Japanese conversations.

  • Practice with native-speed audio and gradually remove subtitles.

  • Get familiar with different Japanese accents and formal/informal speech patterns.


5. Not Practicing with Timed Tests


Time mismanagement is a major issue. Students who do not practice under timed conditions often panic or rush during the actual exam.

How to Avoid:



  • Take full length timed mock exams.

  • Learn to skip and return to difficult questions instead of getting stuck.

  • Track how much time you spend per section and adjust your strategy accordingly.


6. Not Reading Instructions Carefully


Another simple yet damaging mistake is failing to understand the instructions during the exam. This leads to errors even if the student knows the correct answers.

How to Avoid:



  • Before test day, review sample instructions for each section (provided by JLPT official sources).

  • Make sure to read the question prompts slowly and thoroughly, especially in the vocabulary and grammar sections.


7. Guessing Without Strategy


While guessing is sometimes necessary, random guessing reduces your chances of scoring. JLPT does not penalise wrong answers, but strategic guessing increases accuracy.

How to Avoid:



  • Eliminate incorrect choices before guessing.

  • Learn common JLPT trick options and avoid traps.

  • Always answer every question, even if unsure—there’s no negative marking.


Before selecting your center, follow this JLPT Registration Process to apply correctly and on time.

JLPT Score Calculation and Passing Criteria


Each JLPT level has:

  • A maximum score of 180 points.

  • Individual pass marks for sections.

  • A minimum overall passing score.


Here’s an example for JLPT N3:

























Section Max Score Minimum Required
Language Knowledge & Reading 120 38
Listening 60 19
Total 180 95

If you pass the overall score but fail in any one section, you will not pass the JLPT.

Tips to Avoid Common JLPT Mistakes



  1. Follow a structured study plan for vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening.

  2. Analyse past papers and focus on sections with historically low scores.

  3. Start preparation early to avoid last-minute stress.

  4. Enroll in JLPT preparation courses or seek feedback from experienced instructors.

  5. Stay updated with changes in test format, dates, or scoring guidelines through the official JLPT website.


Final Takeaway


Understanding the most common JLPT Japanese Test mistakes and how to avoid them is crucial for success. From misunderstanding the test format and neglecting listening practice to overlooking how JLPT score calculation and scaled scores work, each mistake can impact your result.

By preparing wisely, staying consistent, and being strategic during the exam, you can improve your performance and achieve your desired JLPT level. Whether you are targeting N5 or N1, awareness of these pitfalls will give you a significant advantage.

FAQs – JLPT Japanese Test Mistakes


1. What is the biggest mistake students make in the JLPT exam?
The most common mistake is not understanding the structure and format of the JLPT test. Many students fail to manage their time or neglect one section entirely, leading to poor results.

2. How is the JLPT scored, and what are scaled scores?
The JLPT uses a scaled scoring system. Your raw scores are converted into a scale of 0–180. Each section (Language Knowledge, Reading, Listening) has minimum passing marks, and failing any one section can result in overall failure—even with a good total score.

3. Is guessing allowed in the JLPT?
Yes, there is no negative marking in JLPT, so guessing is allowed. However, random guessing without eliminating wrong options can reduce accuracy. Use strategic guessing techniques to improve your chances.

4. How important is the listening section in the JLPT?
Very important. Many students ignore this section and fail to meet the sectional minimum. Listening carries significant weight and requires consistent practice with native audio sources and mock tests.

5. Can I pass the JLPT by only focusing on kanji and vocabulary?
No. While kanji and vocabulary are crucial, grammar, reading comprehension, and listening skills are equally important. Balanced preparation across all sections is necessary to pass the JLPT.

At TLS – The Japanese Language School, we understand these common challenges and provide tailored coaching to help you overcome them. Our expert teachers offer comprehensive training in every JLPT section, guiding you through exam strategies, time management, and practice tests. Join TLS and give yourself the best chance to succeed in your JLPT journey!

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