In just 8 weeks, you can fully prepare for the TOEFL iBT test. To get ready for the TOEFL test, you must follow certain tips, practice English activities to develop skills and solve sample test questions to understand the exam structure. This page will be your ultimate answer to the question; “How to Prepare for TOEFL?”
About TOEFL
TOEFL is an acronym for Test of English as a Foreign Language. It is one of the globally accepted English proficiency tests conducted by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). If you come from a non-English speaking country, then appearing for the TOEFL may be mandatory for applying to a university or visa.
Step 1: TEOFL Test Format
Have you ever seen what TOEFL iBT looks like? Well, if you haven’t, then this should be your first step toward preparing for the test. The TOEFL iBT consists of 4 sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Students planning to study in the UK must understand the entire test format to score well. Let’s understand it from the table below:
| Sections | Questions | Duration | Section Details |
| Reading | 30 to 40 | 54 to 72 minutes | Reading 3/ 4 passages and answer |
| Listening | 28 to 39 | 41 to 57 minutes | Listen to audio clips and answer |
| Speaking | 4 tasks | 17 minutes | Share your opinion on the given topic |
| Writing | 2 tasks | 50 minutes | Write a structured and clear essay |
*Note – The TOEFL iBT duration is 2 hours and a 10-minute break.
Step 2: Set Your Target Score
Universities have certain TOEFL score requirements. If you plan to study at a top-tier university, like ICL, Cambridge, or ULC, then your minimum TOEFL score must be 80 or above. Once you’ve set a target in your head, you can easily focus on your preparation. For example, if you’re aiming for a score of 100 but consistently score around 70 in practice tests, you may need more time to prepare.
Step 3: Essential Study Resources
Do you know what’s the best way to study for TOEFL? It’s official guides, applications, and YouTube channels. TOEFL is one of the few tests for which you can study online.
- Official TOEFL Guides: Visit the ETS website and subscribe for the TOEFL official practice tests and study materials. This is a great starting point because the content is designed by the test makers themselves.
- Apps and Websites: Use resources like Magoosh or PrepScholar for TOEFL practice. There, you can find practice questions, video tutorials, and tips.
- YouTube Channels: Channels like TST Prep provide excellent videos on how to tackle specific TOEFL sections.
Step 4: Become a Better Note-Taker
How good are you at making notes? Cause this this time, it’s going to be really interesting. In TOEFL listening and speaking, the audio is played only once. You know what that means? This means that you must develop strong note-taking skills. Try to practice listening to academic lectures or podcasts. Simultaneously, write down the key points quickly. You can also summarize the audio content in just a few bullets.
Step 5: Master Time Management
Time can be your biggest enemy during any test. So, how do you make it your ally? You increase your pace without compromising the quality of your answers. To do so, you must practice time management.
- Practice Tests: Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions. This will help you get used to the pace of the exam.
- Break Each Section Down: For example, during the writing section, spend 5–10 minutes planning, 30–35 minutes writing, and the remaining time editing.
Step 6: Improve Your Reading and Listening Skills
What are you reading and listening to?
One of the best ways to prepare for the TOEFL is to engage with English content regularly. Read academic articles, essays, or news reports. Similarly, listen to English podcasts, radio programs, or TED talks. This will improve your comprehension and expose you to different accents and topics.
*Note: While listening, pause and summarize what you’ve heard in your own words. This helps build both listening and speaking skills.
Step 7: Practice Speaking
The speaking section can be intimidating for many non-native speakers. However, you can confidently speak English fluently with regular practice.
- Record Yourself: Use your phone to record responses to practice questions. Listen back and see where you can improve your clarity and fluency.
- Join Conversation Groups: Practice speaking English in real-world settings. Join online conversation groups or language exchange programs.
- Mimic Native Speakers: Watch English TV shows or movies and try to mimic the way native speakers pronounce words and phrases.
Step 8: Writing Tips
Do you struggle with writing essays? The writing section includes two tasks: one where you’ll respond to a reading and listening passage, and another where you’ll write an essay based on a prompt.
Here’s a simple structure for the essay:
- Introduction: Introduce your topic and state your main argument.
- Body Paragraphs: Provide supporting points and examples.
- Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your argument.
*Note: Always leave 5 minutes at the end to proofread your essay for grammar and spelling errors.
Step 9: Consistent Practice is the key
Studying for the TOEFL requires consistency, but don’t forget to take breaks. Studying in shorter, more focused intervals is often more effective than long, exhausting study sessions. Try the Pomodoro Technique—study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break.
Conclusion
Preparing for TOEFL can be a challenging task. However, with the right approach, resources, and consistent practice, you’ll be ready to crack this English test. You can start by understanding the TOEFL structure; Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Solving questions for each part individually. And finally, taking mocks to become accustomed to the exam environment. Acing the TOEFL is the first step towards your academic success.
