How to Master the JLPT N4 Reading Section: Question Types and Study Routine

Overview of the JLPT N4 Reading Section

Whether you are preparing for the December JLPT in Nepal or aiming for the JFT-Basic in Kathmandu, the reading section is crucial. It is part of the combined Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) and Reading test, totaling 120 points (passing score: 38). For N4, you need roughly 300 kanji, 1500 vocabulary words, and 150 grammar points. Since Japanese and Nepali are both SOV (Subject-Object-Verb) languages and use particles (like Nepali postpositions), you will find the sentence structure familiar. Manage your time carefully during the 115-minute exam to ensure you finish the reading tasks.

Official Question Types at N4

The reading section, officially called 読解, features three distinct question types.

1. Short Passages (Kanzen-rikai / Brief Content)

Short texts (80-150 characters) like notices or emails. You must grasp the main point or the writer's intent.

2. Medium Passages (Joho-kensaku / Information Retrieval)

Texts (200-300 characters) like schedules or rules. You must scan for specific details like dates or prices.

3. Comprehension of Intent (Rikai)

Short explanatory passages where the author expresses an opinion. You must understand the reason behind their statement.

Common Traps and How to Avoid Them

Worked Japanese Example

Passage: 佐藤さん 明日の会議ですが、会議室が変更になりました。最初は3階の会議室の予定でしたが、人数が増員されたため、2階の大ホールで行います。時間はいつもどおり午後2時に始まります。遅れないように来てください。

Question: 明日の会議について、正しいものはどれですか。

  1. 会議の時間が午後3時に変更になった。
  2. 会議室が2階の大ホールに変更になった。
  3. 会議は3階の会議室でいつもどおり行われる。
  4. 人数が減ったため、小さな部屋に移動した。

English Translation: Passage: To Mr./Ms. Sato, Regarding tomorrow's meeting, the meeting room has changed. It was originally scheduled for the 3rd-floor meeting room, but because the number of participants increased, it will be held in the 2nd-floor large hall. The time starts at 2:00 PM as usual. Please come without being late. Question: Regarding tomorrow's meeting, which of the following is correct?

  1. The meeting time has changed to 3:00 PM.
  2. The meeting room has changed to the 2nd-floor large hall.
  3. The meeting will be held in the 3rd-floor meeting room as usual.
  4. Because the number of people decreased, we moved to a small room.

Correct Answer: 2

A Concrete Practice Routine for This Week