TOEFL Test Preparation

It’s not about complex grammar and difficult vocabulary that you would never use in real life. So, when you prepare yourself for the TOEFL test, you’re also preparing yourself for using English in real life—like at a university or job.

Follow the 12 tips below to be ready for your test:

1- Get to Know the Format of the TOEFL Test

Check out the official TOEFL website to answer some of your questions: https://www.ets.org/toefl

Understand the TOEFL content.

No matter which format you take, the TOEFL always has three parts:

• Reading
• Listening
• Writing

The Internet-based test (iBT):

• Reading section: 60-80 minutes | 36-56 questions
• Listening section: 60-90 minutes | 34-51 questions
• Short break: 10 minutes
• Speaking section: 20 minutes | 6 tasks
• Writing section: 50 minutes | 2 essays

The Internet-based TOEFL also includes a speaking section.

Paper-based test

• Listening section: 30-40 minutes| 50 questions
• Writing section: 25 minutes | 40 questions
• Reading section: 55 minutes | 50 questions
• TWE test: 30 minutes | write one essay
• Decide which format you want to take
• Note that nowadays the test is usually taken via the Internet
• The paper-based test is becoming less and less popular

2- Know Why You Are Taking the TOEFL Test

To be well prepared, it’s important to know your reasons for taking the test. Then, you can use this information to help you to focus better.

3- Have a Minimum Score in Mind

• First, be sure you know the minimum score you’ll need to reach your goal. Then, choose what score you’d like to get. This is your ideal (preferred) score.
• Write down your minimum and your ideal scores on a piece of paper or a post-it notes, and put it somewhere you see every day. Every time you look at the piece of paper, you’ll be reminded to study to reach your goal.
• Make sure your ideal score is realistic. To make sure you could receive your ideal score, take a practice test and consultation with Skillz MENA and check where you stand.

4- Create an Ideal Study Space

• Find your top ideal study location. It’s important that you feel comfortable in the space
• Create a quiet zone without distractions
• Keep your study space clean and organized
• Schedule your breaks, snack and mealtimes
• Clear your mind

5- Get a Preparation Guide

It is always helpful to understand the test format, strategies and tips to answer the questions and get feedback from professionals. This is a great way for you to see where your strengths and weaknesses are.

When practicing, follow the below tips for the various sections:

• Underline the main ideas and take notes on the side of the book or on a piece of paper. Check your answers afterwards and review your errors. If you need to, you can use your dictionary during practice exercises.
• Write down notes while you’re listening to help you remember details. Don’t write down full sentences, just write down the most important ideas.
• Think about the topic first and then write down your ideas. Create an outline, including an introduction, your main points and a conclusion. Start writing once you have an outline. When finished, read it again and correct your mistakes.
• Answer the exact question that was asked; don’t talk about something else. Keep it simple. Practice speaking clearly and in a relaxed tone.

6- Practice Reading Non-Technical English

The TOEFL test’s reading section, you will read some passages and answer questions related to them. The topics are all in non-technical English that everyone can understand.

7- Practice Listening to English with Your Learning Goal in Mind

In the listening section, you’ll hear different people speaking, both in monologues (one person speaking alone) and dialogues (two or more people conversing). You’ll then answer questions based on what you’ve heard. Use these tips to prepare:

Always listen with a learning goal in mind:

• The main ideas
• The purpose
• Transitions
• Stress and intonation

 Listen to English speakers as much as possible

To practice this listening, you’ll want to listen to audio with native speakers.

8- Practice Timed Writing Before the Test

During the real exam you will have 50 minutes for two essays. This gives you 25 minutes for each topic, including review. When practicing writing about a specific topic, time yourself.

Here are a few more tips that will help you improve your timed writing practice:

• Review your grammar
• Write in English every day
• Check for spelling and grammar mistakes

9- Practice Speaking English

The speaking section of the TOEFL is broken down into small tasks. To prepare, you’ll want to speak both alone and with others.

When taking a practice test or doing specific TOEFL exercises, say your answer out loud. Here are some more ideas when you’re alone:

• Speak in front of a mirror
• Practice the hard words until you get it right
• Repeat the same word or phrase in English over and over again until you get comfortable
• Record yourself speaking, then, listen to the recording for errors
• Practice speaking with other students or with a trainer at Skillz MENA

10- Use Active and Passive Learning Strategies

Make sure you’re using both strategies in your study plan.

Active learning

Active learning happens when you are making an effort and studying with a goal in mind.

Passive learning

Passive learning happens naturally without effort. To learn this way, use English in your free time and for fun even when you are not actively studying.