Best TOEFL Preparation Tips To Boost Your Score

TOEFL is the most widely accepted English Language proficiency test taken by non-native English speakers. The test is used to evaluate a student’s English language knowledge at a university level and they are usually graded based on reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. The total duration of the TOEFL exam is around four hours and 20 minutes. TOEFL is accepted by many English speaking academic and professional institutions. And for those of you who want to put your best foot forward, these tips which we provide after careful analysis with several TOEFL takers will surely assist you.

What is the TOEFL Test Pattern?

The two ways this examination can be taken are as follows

• Internet-based or paper-based standardized test
• A pattern of internet-based test which is taken by a majority

Paper Based Test

1. Listening section:30-40 minutes| 50 questions
2. Writing section:25 minutes | 40 questions
3. Reading section:55 minutes | 50 questions
4. TWE test:30 minutes | write one essay

Now that you know the pattern, here are some tips for each section on how to ace the TOEFL examinations. Besides your usual tips, these will help you gain a better perspective of some simple tricks and tips which will boost your scores a notch higher.

Section-Wise TOEFL Preparation Tips

Listening Section

This test’s the candidate’s ability to understand and comprehend English. You will be asked to listen to recorded conversations and asked some questions.

• Listen to broadcasts – It’s important you listen to debates and discussions on TV and radio. Try to understand what different speakers are saying to get a better understanding of accents.
• Take Notes- The most important point to remember is to make notes as you listen to enable you to not miss out on any important points. Don’t write down full sentences and waste time. Use abbreviations and jot down notes.

 Reading Section

This section might seem simpler than the listening section, but trust us, there’s a lot to observe and analyze here before you answer your questions.

• Read a lot of articles: The best way to improve your vocabulary and analytical skills is to read a lot of English articles and opinion pieces in newspapers.
• Practice Grammar: Make sure your grammar skills are up to the mark since ultimately this is what will create the best impression. Try working on prepositions, tenses, and voices which for the basics of grammar.
• Familiarize ‘University’ English: This is important since a lot of questions will be from situations in university life.
• Work on comprehension: Since this section is based on comprehension, it helps if you practice comprehension making you efficient and fast.

Speaking Section

This is important to express your opinion and arguments on a specific topic. You will have to present a speech based on listening and reading parts.

• Record your Voice: Record your voice over a tape and listen to it. Check for points of improvisations. Are you too fast? Is your accent understandable? Record observations and statements to practice a notch higher.
• Practice Speaking: For those who are not too familiar with conversant English, practice speaking for the test to become familiar with spoken English. You can practice alone in front of a mirror or with teachers and friends.

Writing Section 

• Read and read more: Read a lot of newspapers and good articles in magazines, gain knowledge and improvise your writing skills on a wide range of topics.
• Practice Writing: Practice a lot of writing skills at home. Research on current affairs and try jotting down points for and against each topic you choose to read.

Other TOEFL Preparation Tips

• Practice several tests. You can make use of a variety of materials to study and check out the TOEFL’s official site.
• Have a minimum ideal score in mind which you can aim for. Set your goals and work accordingly.
• Get the support of teachers or peers and watch out for online communities which offer support for TOEFL aspirants.
• Create an exam environment! Time yourself and work out how you can improve where you lag.

With hard work and practice, we are sure you will score high if you just follow the above tips for your TOEFL. Good Luck!