Tips to Prepare for TOEFL Writing

1. Tips to Prepare for TOEFL Writing Preparing for the writing section of the TOEFL examination works as the key integrator of all the four skills. You will have to read, listen, and report back through written submission the questions asked. Generally, timekeeping issues are universally important. Therefore, we will focus on only writing-based tips for the TOEFL test but first, we take a look at the examination structure:- Examination Structure :- You will be prompted to read an academic text in 3 minutes before it disappears. Next will be to listen to an audio on the same topic. The audio is usually a counter-argument to the text excerpt. You will have to write a text response on how the text and audio are related. The text will reappear but the audio will be gone. It is important to listen carefully and take notes when you are playing the audio. The second exercise is an open question which needs a structured essay of 300 hundred words. How then do you prepare for such? Read on! Learn to Paraphrase :- The TOEFL test is concerned with your comprehension aptitude, not necessarily your cramming abilities. It is important to paraphrase what you heard and read, not quote and regurgitate it. Your paraphrasing ability will help you score higher than just quoting what is in the text. Remember the text you read will be on display. Simply communicate, in your own words, what you heard or read. As you prepare, find texts to read and rewrite them in your own words. This is important for Task 1. Good Note Taking :- Surprise! During Task 1, you will have to take notes on the audio that you will listen to. The audio, unlike the reading excerpt, will only play once and disappear. You must practice taking notes of audio messages. Responses that raise more points from the audio recording attracts higher scores than those that focus on the reading text on the screen. Draft before you write :- Before you start writing, have a clear plan on what and how you are going to write. Draft your points on a separate sheet of paper. This helps against blanking when you start writing. A clear draft will guide your response. Practice drafting, not just writing from the head. Establish a clear opinion/response :- Choose a clear opinion/position and elaborate on it. Whilst an issue might have many sides to it, make sure that you establish a clear opinion in your response. Do not worry about the other argument, unless asked to do so. This is important whilst doing Task 1. Be concise :- Get straight to the point! Let each standalone paragraph address a specific issue. Avoid waffling. Make use of transitional words or phrases to develop and connect ideas. Develop and exhaust a point in a single paragraph. End body paragraphs with a concluding statement. Use your normal vocabulary :- As you practice your writing, do not try to sound sophisticated. A lot of meaning is lost in the use of new big words. Use the vocabulary you are comfortable with using every day. This enhances the clarity of your thoughts or argument. The TOEFL is not the place to throw in every big word you know. Write and keep on writing as you practice for the test. Make it a habit to summarize what you would have read or listened to. To prepare yourself better, get someone to score your writing or find internet-based platforms to help you.