Learn hiragana and katakana first
Study the most common kanji daily
Memorize high-frequency vocabulary
Learn basic grammar patterns
Use spaced repetition software every day
Practice listening with Japanese audio daily
Shadow native speakers out loud
Speak from day one
Write simple sentences every day
Read graded readers and easy manga
Watch Japanese content with subtitles
Use Japanese in real situations
Set a daily study schedule
Focus on core phrases before advanced topics
Review mistakes regularly
Practice with a tutor or language partner
Think in Japanese as much as possible
Learn words in context, not isolation
Master particles and verb conjugations early
Keep sessions short and consistent