I started consistently studying Japanese a year ago. For the first couple of months, I only studied kana, kanji and some vocabulary, so that I could later focus on grammar concepts without having to spend too much time looking up unknown words.

Once I was comfortable reading simple sentences, it was time to start getting familiar with basic grammar.

Here are three apps that helped me learn and practice, ordered by complexity:

1. Bunpo

Bunpo ("grammar" in Japanese) is organised by JLPT exam levels, from N5 to N1. Within each level, atomic grammar concepts are presented in the form of short lesson cards, followed by examples and a quiz. The app also contains a SRS-based review system that helps you revise the items. If any of the concepts are unclear, the app allows you drop a message in the chat and a teacher will answer your questions.

2. KawaiiNihongo

KawaiiNihongo ("cute Japanese") is a fun gamified way to learn Japanese grammar. The action takes place at a school in Japan where you join Riko, an adorable fox-girl and her friends (beautifully illustrated) in their adventures, progressively unlocking grammar concepts along the way. The app also includes a range of mini-games to help with memorisation.

3. Renshuu

The last one on the list is Renshuu ("practice" in Japanese). This app contains a whole system for learning grammar, vocabulary and kanji, with advanced search system, mini-games and learners' community. In adventure mode, you can grow and advance your Kao-chan character (the cute Renshuu mascot) as you progress and gain experience points and achievements.

Pick an app that works for you but avoid using all of them at the same time! This way you can make sure you benefit fully from what each of them has to offer.