posted by brianb983 on June 25, 2010 | 5 comments
Hello guys,
I want to take the HSK test later this year. Do you recommend any software programs that will at least help me increase my vocabulary? I have used some software before, but it was geared towards beginners, which doesn't really help when you're advanced learner...
Thanks!
Brain Barchek
daniel.nalesnik on June 25, 2010 | reply
Not *specifically* for HSK only, but I think every Chinese learner needs a great flashcard program. I've used iFlash for the mac http://www.loopware.com/iflash/ . Lots of customizable options, and you can share cardsets... I'd be interested to know if anyone has anything better.
Hi Brian,
Not of immediate use, but we are developing an HSK application for the iPhone that we expect to release shortly. It will probably see the light of day in about a month, although it will focus mostly on test questions rather than vocabulary.
Best,
--david
daniel.nalesnik on June 28, 2010 | reply
Wow - great - focused on the new hsk or old hsk?
Both actually, but more focused on areas the tests overlap than areas they're different. Hopefully useful to everyone.
Pleco's flashcard software for the ipod/phone is excellent, with an enormous amount of control over how you want to study. If you get the reader software as well you can add cards straight into your flashcard lists from documents. I have mine loaded up with all the intermediate and elementary HSK tests from here. Still need a pen and paper to jot down the answers though..
Announcements on July 23, 2010 | reply
@brianb983, Dave and daniel.nalesnikJust a quick note to let you all know we've just released our the first version of our iPhone/iTouch HSK study software. The application is free and available for download directly from the App Store. It has almost 2000 questions at all levels of difficulty:http://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/hsk-test/id382098899?mt=8Another step in our efforts to push together a much more comprehensive and cross-platform system for helping people with test preparation, but also Chinese learning more generally. If you guys have any feedback on usability or ways we can improve it, please let me know. The next version of our site should have more integrated support for mobile applications, so we're interested in hearing how people use this stuff and what suggestions for improvements people have.Best,--david