Radicals.

[Haruspex]

I would like to hear everyone's opinion on radicals. I might start using them in learning, as I have noticed that my mind started to differentiate between them on its own lol.
On the other hand, learning them all sounds rather time-consuming.
So, whats your opinion? You suggest I study radicals, or plain rape knowledge into my mind?

 

[lonesoullost3]

I assume you're talking about memorizing kanji via rote or mnemonics vs. radicals? I personally prefer to learn via radicals, because like you said, I also tend to see the constituents that make up a character. For me at least, I find it easier to remember that way, but it all depends on your learning style. I'm sure there will be other people who disagree on this point (that is, learn via radicals).

 

[Thorham]

I think I've posted this before, but here goes: As far as I know, most of the radicals are just part of the genral use set of kanji. There are some which seem to be just building blocks without a meaning, and there are some which aren't part of the general use set. If you're interested, I can make a list of all the radicals with their meaning and grade (if any). As I haven't checked all of the radicals, I'm not a 100% sure about the above, but making that list should clear things up!

 

[shinza]

I think the most popular radicals are good to learn. Google it and the first few pages will list the main ones. Plus, when you ask or explain to somebody how to write it, you'll hear like sanzuihen ni something something...Not to mention it'll be easier to differentiate between similar kanji different only by one radical: 僕 撲 業 etc.