How to use the Ikigai Noto Hiragana and Katakana workbook

Applies to: Ikigai Noto digital Kana Workbook and Ikigai Noto printable Kana Workbook. Digital steps use a PDF app. Printable steps use the paper-size file supplied with your purchase. File options and layouts may differ by version.

Start with the version you downloaded, then learn one kana family at a time. The workbook has hiragana and katakana examples, numbered stroke models, tracing, blank writing spaces, practice tests and answer keys.

Using the digital workbook

1. Save the workbook PDF. If your download is a ZIP, extract it first. Open or import the actual PDF in an app that can write on PDFs and follow their links.
2. Try the navigation before writing. Open Index and try the Hiragana or Katakana tab, then choose a family lesson or test. If your app separates reading and writing, use its read, view or navigation mode for links, then switch to writing mode for practice.
3. Keep the original download safe. If your app offers page duplication, make a copy for extra practice. Use the built-in Index for the original lesson pages and add an app bookmark for a copied page if that feature is available.

Using the printable workbook

If your download has more than one paper size, choose the filename that matches your paper:

• A4: Kana Workbook - Printable - A4.pdf
• A5: Kana Workbook - Printable - A5.pdf
• US Letter: Kana Workbook - Printable - US Letter.pdf
• Half Letter: Kana Workbook - Printable - Half Letter.pdf

Use the formats supplied with your purchased version. In print preview, match the paper size and check the page edges. If your print dialog offers Actual Size or 100%, use that for a test. Print one practice page before a larger batch, and check for clipping or unwanted scaling.

For paper, use the printed contents and page numbers to find the lesson, test and answer key.

A simple practice cycle

1. Choose one family. Start with the hiragana vowels あ, い, う, え, お, or return to the family you need to review. Look at the large character, romaji and example words.
2. Follow the numbered strokes. Each picture keeps the earlier strokes and adds the next one. Follow the workbook's writing guide rather than copying only the finished shape.
3. Trace, then write. Trace the gray characters, then use the blank cells. Try writing the kana from memory before looking back.
4. Try the family test. Answer before checking the key. Use the digital answer link where provided, or the printed answer-page reference. Review the missed characters, practice them again, then try them once more from memory.

Example words may include kana you haven't learned yet. Focus on the main character and revisit the words later. Read the workbook's sound guide and its note about katakana spelling exercises too.

Help with files or your app

• Find your download and import help
• Choose an app and find app-specific help
• Help with PDF links and navigation modes