Use a word inside a complete sentence
Treat a reading or vocabulary item as a question about a word in context. Kanji can have several readings, and the reading appropriate to one compound need not work in another. For homophones, examine the action, object and surrounding evaluation before choosing a character. A proverb or idiom needs its established figurative sense; a literal picture of its words can be an intentional distractor. In grammar, identify the relationship being expressed before selecting a particle or conjugated form. A causative form differs from a passive form, and a respectful expression differs from a humble one because the direction of respect changes. Use a short paraphrase to check the intended meaning. Do not accept a vocabulary answer merely because it is familiar: make the entire completed sentence express the required idea naturally. Keep an error notebook that records the complete example, the relevant distinction and a new sentence you can explain, instead of storing a pronunciation without meaning.