Is there an easy way to find the correct "spelling" of a Japanese word?
I've been studying Japanese on my own using the internet and text books. I didn't take a lesson yet because I don't feel confident about my speaking level. As for now, this approach seems to be working.
However,I noticed one big "flaw".
The information I find in online lessons differs from my book. Moreover, in my text book about かな every single word is written in かな.
This caused confusion since I learn new vocabulary yet I end up not understanding simple written sentences (with the new vocabulary). Some words I especially struggled with were 上 (= うえ) and 家 (= いえ). I used to suggestions from the keyboard and Google image to find the norm written form - which is hopefully correct.

Does anyone know a quicker and more efficient approach?
What do you do when you hear a new Japanese word and want to find it's written form?

Question

Is there an easy way to find the correct "spelling" of a Japanese word?
I've been studying Japanese on my own using the internet and text books. I didn't take a lesson yet because I don't feel confident about my speaking level. As for now, this approach seems to be working.
However,I noticed one big "flaw".
The information I find in online lessons differs from my book. Moreover, in my text book about かな every single word is written in かな.
This caused confusion since I learn new vocabulary yet I end up not understanding simple written sentences (with the new vocabulary). Some  words I especially struggled with were 上 (= うえ) and 家 (= いえ). I used to suggestions from the keyboard and Google image to find the norm written form - which is hopefully correct.

Does anyone know a quicker and more efficient approach?
What do you do when you hear a new Japanese word and want to find it's written form?

Answer

Are you already using jisho.org? If not, I highly recommend it for differentiating which kanji goes with which word like 早い (はやい、early) versus 速い (はやい、fast). Be sure to note the Kanji variations on the right side of the page.

Answer

I am assuming that you are talking about the multiple readings (kana) in kanji. Unfortunately the reading of the kanji can change depending on context. I recommend using Rikaikun, a nice chrome extension, if you haven't already.

https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/rikaikun/jipdnfibhldikgcjhfnomkfpcebammhp

Answer

I guess one of the efficient ways is to use Youtube to get used to the sound of Japanese. You can start from language learning videos and then Japanese TV program with caption!

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