Find a copy of the Japanese alphabet, or kana, that works for you, whether from a book or a website. Choose a format in which you feel comfortable learning. Check the Resources section for free online guides.
Look at each symbol within the Hiragana alphabet. Write the first five symbols 10 times, repeating their sounds with each writing. Continue this work twice each day until you can masterfully write and pronounce each symbol. Boston University recommends studying once after you wake up in the morning and once again in the evening before falling asleep.
Master the next five Hiragana symbols, occasionally reviewing the first five to retain the knowledge. Continue learning the symbols in teams of five. Breaking the large task of learning the Japanese alphabet into smaller tasks will help you learn without growing overwhelmed.
Examine the Katakana alphabet after you have mastered the Hiragana. Repeat the same process of learning to write five symbols while memorizing the sound of each.
Review your previous work daily so that the knowledge stays fresh. Reminding yourself of knowledge already gained will also help boost your confidence during the learning process.