Feeling Overwhelmed in the JLPT Listening Section?

Have you ever felt flooded with information during the JLPT listening test, trying to catch every single word only to miss the most crucial part? 😩

The common mistake is trying to translate everything in your head. At higher levels, you don't need to understand 100% of the content to choose the correct answer.

The Tip: Become a 'Signal Hunter' 🕵️‍♂️

Instead of listening passively, switch to high-alert mode when you hear specific signal words (シグナルワード). The answer is often served up on a platter right after these words. Here are the 'targets' you need to hunt for:

• Contrast Signals 🔄: 「でも」「しかし」「ところが」「実は…」

  • Example: "Plan A seems good, but (でも), I think Plan B is more effective." -> The answer is almost certainly about Plan B.

• Conclusion Signals 🎯: 「ですから」「そのため」「つまり」「要するに」

  • These words summarize the entire issue and lead directly to the final answer or decision. Hearing them means the answer is coming.

• Emphasis Signals ✨: 「特に」「何よりも」「一番大切なのは」

  • When the speaker uses these words, they are practically shouting, "ATTENTION, THIS PART IS IMPORTANT!". Don't miss it.

• Reason Signals 🗣️: 「なぜなら」「〜ので」「〜ので」

  • When the question is "Why?", these words will lead you directly to the answer.

• The Final Signal 🏁: The last sentence of the dialogue

  • Often, the final sentence will summarize the ultimate decision or feeling. Don't let your guard down just because the track is about to end!

Practicing this skill will help you filter out the noise, focus on the core message, and accurately 'catch' the answer. Good luck! ✅