HSK 1: Beginner

What does HSK 1 mean?

HSK 1 is the first level of China's official Chinese proficiency test, covering 150 words written in characters with pinyin above them. You can understand and use very simple phrases to meet concrete needs and introduce yourself.

What can you do at HSK 1?

At HSK 1 you can typically do the following:

• Greet people, introduce yourself and say your nationality
• Understand and use around 150 basic words and set phrases
• Give your phone number, the date and simple numbers
• Read short sentences supported by pinyin above the characters
• Answer simple questions about your family and where you live

How long does it take to reach HSK 1?

Reaching HSK 1 from a standing start typically takes 50-150 hours.

A learner at this level generally has an active vocabulary of 150 official words and about 170 characters; HSK 3.0 sets 500 words and 300 characters.

These are guides, not guarantees: prior languages, study intensity and how much you speak all move the number substantially.

How do you practise at HSK 1?

NativePal generates its content at the level you select, so at HSK 1 your reading lessons, vocabulary and speaking prompts are pitched here rather than at a generic average.

Reading lessons produce stories written for HSK 1, with every word tappable for a translation and a comprehension quiz at the end. Vocabulary lessons and the spaced-repetition flashcards draw on words appropriate to the level, and Speaking Practice scores your pronunciation on individual sounds, stress and rhythm, fluency and connected speech.

What comes after HSK 1?

HSK 2 is the next level up. HSK 2 is the second HSK level, covering 300 words. You can communicate in simple, routine tasks about familiar everyday matters such as shopping, family and daily schedules, using short and direct exchanges of information.