My Experience On Preparing For TOPIK Exam

For many Korean-speaking foreigners, the TOPIK exam is not only a test to measure language proficiency but often a mandatory requirement for applying for a job or scholarship. As Benjamin Franklin said in a quote, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” I try to come with ways to prepare for the test better. Here is my attempt that awarded me with TOPIK level 6.

Set A Goal

Instead of an abstract objective, reasonable goals can give us a clearer idea of things needed to be worked on. A study plan that is made has to be aligned with this goal.

Exercise on TOPIK mock tests

Other than doing TOPIK mock tests available in textbooks, I also use free apps that offer them. Mistakes from the mock tests give me an information about areas to improve.

Divide study time into sessions

As of 2020, the TOPIK I test comprised of listening and reading tests while TOPIK II comprised of listening, reading, and writing tests. Usually, I divide them based on the form of tests or specifically divide them into areas I want to work on. For me, I divide your study sessions into vocabulary, grammar, and writing. Also, note that you have to aware of subcategories such as proverbs (속담) and four-character idioms (사자성어) that you might want to master.

Enjoy various contents in Korean

I expose myself to Korean videos, courses, and articles. Familiarizing yourself more with Korean will make you not only linguistically, but culturally updated.

Prepare for the race

Nothing new to prepare for the test: I rest the night before. I don’t skip meals. Also, arrive at the testing place early to check the room and seat. The last point is to pick the easier question first then move to the harder one.

Those was my experience on preparing for the TOPIK exam. Let me know if you have any additional tip!