On WaniKani, some radicals in our early levels come with their very own illustrations to help you connect the shape to the name at a glance. Instead of puzzling over how a few strokes are supposed to look like something familiar, now you’ll see a memorable image that ties it all together. How does 力 look like “Power,” you may ask? Here’s how!

You may also notice that these drawings share the same playful style as Tofugu’s hiragana and katakana guides, making mnemonics easier to visualize. The goal is simple: give your memory an instant visual hook so you can recognize and recall radicals more quickly, especially when they’re brand new.

We’re adding these images across the levels, and over time most radicals will have them. Some may never get artwork if they’re just too abstract, but for the ones that do, you can look forward to a little burst of personality and clarity in your Lessons. You’ll find the illustrations on the radical subject pages or on your Lessons after the mnemonic.

It’s a small touch that makes your learning stick, and can make studying a lot more fun.