Just to reiterate, Phase #4 is taking place after Phases #1-3. In other words, the focus shifts that I'll be talking about in this section are intended to take place after a solid year of studying. Ultimately it's your decision. It's not my place to tell you what you should study at what time. As long as you're focused on something that's appropriate for your level in a structured, time-efficient manner, than any type of studying is both worthwhile and commendable.

For those who intend to follow this guide closely, though, I recommend the following shifts in your study style upon the successful completion of Phases #1-3, right around the 1 year marker if you are starting Japanese from scratch.