Kanji alongside a textbook without prior character knowledge
Separate word recognition, reading and handwriting, and select tasks by your current course.
Begin with a lesson word
Select recurring words that block the current sentence. Record the written word, kana, current sense and a short example. Notice characters and their positions within the word. You do not need every reading of each character before learning vocabulary; check volume and edition if using a separate English kanji companion.
Set recognition and handwriting targets separately
Recognising a word without writing it is a real but limited skill. If classwork requires handwriting, practise selected weekly words. For reading, first test recognition, reading and meaning. Compare similar characters when shapes are confused, and consult a reliable model for strokes rather than repeat an uncertain shape.
Add a manageable word set
When class is ahead, repair words needed for the next assigned task rather than trying to catch up with the entire book. Use a short slot for selection, reading and one hidden-cue check, leaving room for a small grammar or audio task. The next day, recognise the words in new short sentences before adding more.
Example
Original word record: learn 「学生（がくせい）」and 「学校（がっこう）」as words, then notice their shared 学 without treating it as a complete reading rule.
Check your understanding
Choose three lesson words and test recognition, reading and handwriting separately.
Explanation
Repair the skill your goal requires. Add handwriting when the class or chosen task actually needs it.
Find your question
- I have never learned Chinese characters and my Minna class is ahead in kanji. How do I choose what to practise first?
- Should I learn all onyomi and kunyomi for a kanji before learning the word in my lesson?
- I can recognise lesson words but cannot write them by hand. How do I decide whether handwriting is needed for my goal?
- With 20 minutes a day, how can I add kanji without stopping my Minna grammar and audio tasks?