How to prepare for TOEFL
TOEFL, which stands for “Test of English as a Foreign Language” is a systematized test for non-native speakers to measure their English Language ability. TOEFL was first started 57 years ago in 1964. This test is for those who wish to enroll in English-speaking universities.
It is accepted by many English-speaking universities and professional institutions worldwide. Those who wish to take this test can opt for either an Internet-based or Paper-based standardized test. This test is developed and administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS).
Some of the tested critical skills are listening, reading, speaking and, writing of English Language. Appraising the proficiency of the English Language of non-native speakers is the main objective of this examination.
The test is taken in two ways: Internet-based test (IBT) where duration ranges from 2 hours 47 minutes to 3 hours 23 minutes. Another is the Paper-based test, where the time is 2 hours 25 minutes. The score or grade card is valid for two years.
There are around 4,500 test centers in 165 countries, and the annual number of test-takers is approximately 2.3 million. There are no specific eligibility criteria and are solely intended for non-native English speakers. The IBT exam fees stand at (Internet-based test) exam stand at $185 and up depending test taker country, whereas the paper-delivered test stands at $180.
To take the TOEFL test, you should have a valid passport and then create an ETS account or, an alternative way is to log in to your existing account.
Choose a test date and test center location from the list of centers according to your convenience and complete the remaining steps accordingly. Visit our website to know more about the TOEFL exam and preparation strategy.
Ways to prepare for TOEFL:
Understand TOEFL test format:
Before attempting the TOEFL test, it is imperative to understand the TOEFL format. Check out the official website to understand the TOEFL exam format. A clear understanding will help you prepare systematically for the exam with proper schedules and support from teachers.
Increase your retention power:
In the TOEFL test, you get to listen to some audio clips once. After listening, you need to answer questions or speak on the topic or write on the subject you heard about to attempt such questions by listening once you need to increase your retention power by becoming a good note-taker. It will help if you practice taking notes of what the author says while listening to the audio.
It would be best if you practice with a variety of audio clips of different lengths and complexity. One must also pay attention to the topic’s key points and listen to the clip again after forming the note to assess the accuracy.
Please pay special attention to the layout of the notes and handwriting as it shows how confidently you are taking your exam, which will be a massive help for your TOEFL test.
Practice reading regularly:
In the TOEFL test’s reading section, you will read some passages and answer questions relating to them. The topics in the reading section consist mainly of non-technical English so that everyone can understand.
It would help if you also allocate a fixed time every day dedicated to reading. Take extra attention to various topics like Story Archives, Breaking News, and short fiction stories. After each paragraph, stop and ask yourself questions relating to the paragraph and try answering them by summarizing information pieces.
Also, take special care of vocabulary. While reading new passages, make sure to underline new words, try understanding the meaning of the words in the dictionary, and use them throughout the day in your writing and speaking practice.
Particular focus on the listening section:
You need to focus on the listening section. You will hear different people speaking in monologues (one person speaking alone) and dialogues (two or more people speaking). After listening, you will get to answer the questions relating to what you have heard.
Start listening with the intent of learning. While listening, focus on topics relating to the main ideas, the transitions of monologues and dialogues, the purpose, and the issues that the speaker’s issues.
Practice writing skills:
The Writing section requires good skills to avoid spelling and grammatical mistakes. You should organize the information and divide it into paragraphs to list similar details logically. Always recheck your paragraphs after completing them to catch any unwanted errors. Make sure to get it reviewed by your teachers, seniors, or peers to assess your writing.
Use passive learning strategies:
There are different learning types, but one should always include passive learning strategies. It happens naturally without any effort and use English in your free time. Start reading books, watch English movies or speak with someone to learn. Participate in different social media groups and English-speaking communities.
Regular Mock Tests:
While preparing for TOEFL, always aim for a specific score. Take as many mock tests as you can to assess your preparation. It will help you get an idea of the exam environment, question types, and the constraints you will face on the exam day.
Practice test also helps you enhance your skills and helps you in time management, which will help you in the long run.
Proper time management needed:
There should be adequate time management while taking the exam. It will help if you take as many mock tests as possible to understand which question needs how much time and how you need to allocate your time accordingly.
While managing time, you should not lose focus on the questions and practice note making with accuracy to ace the exam.
Get your basics cleared:
Make sure to get your basics cleared on the topics from your teachers, seniors, or peers. Understanding the listening, speaking, reading, and writing section before taking any mock test is necessary to excel in the exams.
Create an organized study space:
You should also get yourself an organized study space with proper schedules, study papers, and notes on every topic. It is essential as a better organization with less clutter enables you to improve focus and productivity, thereby minimizing distraction.
