Getting ready for TOPIK I? Whether you're just starting out with Korean or looking to solidify your basics, this guide is here to walk you through the nitty-gritty of preparing without all the formal jargon. Let’s dive into how you can make the most of your study time!
Quick Look at TOPIK I
TOPIK I is all about basics, checking how well you can understand simple Korean through:
Listening: 30 questions, 40 minutes of audio clips.
Reading: 40 questions, 60 minutes of short texts.
Part 1: Tuning Your Ears - Listening Prep
1. Kickoff with the Basics
What to Do: Start with basic vocabulary and simple sentences. Grab an introductory book or if you're not sure how or where to start, consult our tutor.
2. Listen to All Things Korean
Try This: Tune into beginner-friendly Korean podcasts or YouTube channels. Even listening to dialogues in Korean dramas helps. Just keep the subtitles on and try to catch as much as you can.
We have beginner friendly podcasts on our Youtube channel. You can start here!
3. Get the Real Deal
Practice Time: Dive into past TOPIK I exams. Time yourself to get used to answering questions quickly. Scroll to the bottom of the page to download the past year papers.
Part 2: Eyeing the Prize - Reading Prep
1. Build a Reading Habit
Daily Goal: Try to read something in Korean every day—whether it’s a children’s book, simple articles online, or even social media posts in Korean.
2. Vocabulary Is Key
Fun with Words: Make flashcards or use an app to learn new words. Try to use these words in your daily life, like jotting down a grocery list or labeling items around your house. Click here to access our quizlet deck!
3. Mix It Up
Wide Reading: Read menus, street signs, or ads to see different types of writing. Keep practicing with all the TOPIK I mock papers to get faster and more accurate.
Getting Ready for the Big Day (Ugh.. exam day)
1. Keep It Fresh
Weekly Check-In: Go over everything you’ve learned each week to keep it fresh. Apps that use spaced repetition are great for remembering vocabulary long-term.
You can use our forum for daily study check-in.
2. Live the Language
Immerse Yourself: Try changing your phone’s language to Korean or follow a Korean recipe. It’s all about making Korean a part of your day-to-day life.
3. Test Yourself
Mock Exams: Every month, sit down and take a full practice test. See how you do, and figure out what still needs some work.
Tips for Exam Day
1. Stay Sharp
Rest Well: Make sure you get a good night’s sleep before the test.
Eat Right: Have a good breakfast that morning—something with a bit of protein and carbs. *p.s.: I always bring my own bottle of water to the exam hall, trust me, avoid caffeinated drinks, I repeat, avoid caffeinated beverages, you'll thank me.
2. Keep Calm and relax
Breathe: If you feel nervous, take deep breaths to calm down.
Plan: Have a strategy for how long to spend on each section so you don’t feel rushed.
3. Visit the bathroom when you can
You know why I’m giving you this advice? Because I almost had an accident once! Trust me, it’s better to take that bathroom break and not need it than to need it and not take it!
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