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TPS - TOEFL Tips
The aim for this page is to supply you with advice and tips on more credible websites and YouTube videos that I have looked through and feel are good self-study tools. As well, I will link some textbooks that seem to best prepare students and give them the right approach. Continue to use google for a good many more sites but remember that part of a successful study plan is to pace yourself and keep your information intake manageable. As well, I will post a new Tip every week and archive them. You can also go to my TOEFL blog, which is new. You are welcome to make your own posts or just post a question for others. If you feel ready to take practice tests go to my page on Free TOEFL Practice Tests
Free TOEFL Websites and Blogs
There are four important ETS TOEFL websites that seem to give credible information and give you a lot of detail on the test itself.
The first one is a kind of ETS tool kit that can be ordered to help you study. From this site you can order free information but you may need a teacher or tutor to help you because the information is designed for teachers. You can order a pdf bulletin and download a student brochure. My favorite is the ETS student test prep planner because it also gives practice. There is a newsletter sign up – they expect you to be a teacher but you can get someone to order for you or pretend you are one.
ETS also has a facebook site and a special site for practice called TOEFL Go Anywhere
Another is the wikipedia site, which may not give any tips but does tell you about the structure of the test in a clear way.
Two good tips sites are Exam English, which gives a series of tips that echo some of the advice that I have often given to students and English Club, which does an honest job as well. English-test.net has a section on TOEFL you might find worthwhile and there is quite a hefty section on learn4. There is a blog called TOEFL Blog
VEC has a good section that compares TOEFL with IELTS in terms of band levels.
A site that many of my students is a vocabulary site that is meant for GRE but has a special section for TOEFL called Pass GRE
If you do a Google search on "Best TOEFL Websites" you can see a whole lot more. The ones I give just reflect my students own experience with them but please feel free to let me know if you feel there are better ones not included.
The first one is a kind of ETS tool kit that can be ordered to help you study. From this site you can order free information but you may need a teacher or tutor to help you because the information is designed for teachers. You can order a pdf bulletin and download a student brochure. My favorite is the ETS student test prep planner because it also gives practice. There is a newsletter sign up – they expect you to be a teacher but you can get someone to order for you or pretend you are one.
ETS also has a facebook site and a special site for practice called TOEFL Go Anywhere
Another is the wikipedia site, which may not give any tips but does tell you about the structure of the test in a clear way.
Two good tips sites are Exam English, which gives a series of tips that echo some of the advice that I have often given to students and English Club, which does an honest job as well. English-test.net has a section on TOEFL you might find worthwhile and there is quite a hefty section on learn4. There is a blog called TOEFL Blog
VEC has a good section that compares TOEFL with IELTS in terms of band levels.
A site that many of my students is a vocabulary site that is meant for GRE but has a special section for TOEFL called Pass GRE
If you do a Google search on "Best TOEFL Websites" you can see a whole lot more. The ones I give just reflect my students own experience with them but please feel free to let me know if you feel there are better ones not included.
TOEFL YouTube videos
There are a number of TOEFL lessons and tips - of all the standardized tests there is probably more on TOEFL than any other exam. The first place to start are the ones offered by the ETS. One is a kind of TOEFL tour and another is a video on what to expect during the exam. The parts of the exam are explained on Inside TOEFL and there are individual sections on speaking sections one and two, three and four as well as a writing video
For non-official YouTube videos, there is a whole channel called TOEFLtv with many topics and tips. Another very well-known site comes from the website Notefull which has produced its NoteFull TOEFL Mastery. None of the videos are particularly brilliant but they do give a lot of topics, tips and insight to think about. A very popular one is like a friendly class by the hugely popular "Learn English with Rebecca" which rather than load you up with banal advice, give very specific language focused lessons.
For non-official YouTube videos, there is a whole channel called TOEFLtv with many topics and tips. Another very well-known site comes from the website Notefull which has produced its NoteFull TOEFL Mastery. None of the videos are particularly brilliant but they do give a lot of topics, tips and insight to think about. A very popular one is like a friendly class by the hugely popular "Learn English with Rebecca" which rather than load you up with banal advice, give very specific language focused lessons.
TOEFL Textbooks
There are many TOEFL textbooks and the first one I would recommend are the Official ETS Guide . It may not be the most interesting book or the best for tips but since this is the one published by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), so it is reliable, and more authentic in terms of questions and it gives you an accurate sense of the level of difficulty. The book has the handbook section that also gives some language advice. Typically ETS, it is a boring but trustworthy book that you use as a start but not as the last book. You can ften find these at libraries perhaps older versions but nevertheless relevant as long as it features the iBt test as opposed to the PBT.
The Kaplan Premier iBT TOEFL, is a very thick book with is a detailed book with language and grammar exercises and test-taking strategies and tips. It tends to take an approach of dealing with types of questions rather than just general advice applicable to the whole sub-skill section. It tends to be strong on reading and listening and a bit weak with the writing and speaking.There are complaints about technical issues especially with the practice exams. Although they advertise 4 practice exams, some have complained they only got 2 practice tests.
The Cambridge Preparation for the TOEFL Test This book also uses exercises skill by skill and with progress checks although arguably they are not as authentic as those offered by the ETS and Kaplan. Most of the sections of this book do not accurately represent TOEFL test questions. Its weakest sections are the reading and speaking sections but its listening and writing sections are very good. The model exams on the other hand, are very authentic, and there are seven of them, four in hard copy and three on the CD-ROM. The difficulty level is close to the real exam. Surprisingly, it is a more interesting book for students to work with than than Kaplans, Barrons or ETS, even though it may be less authentic.
Princeton Review's Cracking the TOEFL iBT , is the best book for writing and speaking. there are good strategies and drills although the speaking strategies are a bit difficult to use on the real exam It is a bit weak with listening giving too few samples and its reading passages are too easy compared to the real exam. Students like this best so it is a good one to use with students that hate tests as it seems less intimidating. It does not wast space with lengthy introductions and has practical techniques that make it a more manageable book for people with less time to prepare and it is more up to date in the reading section. It comes with a simulated TOEFL iBT test and audio exercises on an accompanying audio CD-ROM. It is not as authentic in terms of difficulty level of practice exams and there could be more of them but this is a useful book with lower level students who may feel too intimidated with the other books
Finally there is the Barron's TOEFL iBT , which is really a book that is for the advanced student who already knows the test and just wants tips and practice and it gives 8 practice test but if you want even more you can get Barron's Practice Exercises for the TOEFL with Audio CDs which gives over 1000 practice exercises and explanations for both the paper-based and the internet-based versions of the TOEFL. The latter is not great for advice or tips but does give a lot of practice. Some have commented that the difficulty level of both these books are a bit advanced but this can be seen as a good thing, since the most annoying thing is to do practice tests and then find out they are way easier than the real ones! Many of the more advanced students love this book because it is so comprehensive and authentic.
The Kaplan Premier iBT TOEFL, is a very thick book with is a detailed book with language and grammar exercises and test-taking strategies and tips. It tends to take an approach of dealing with types of questions rather than just general advice applicable to the whole sub-skill section. It tends to be strong on reading and listening and a bit weak with the writing and speaking.There are complaints about technical issues especially with the practice exams. Although they advertise 4 practice exams, some have complained they only got 2 practice tests.
The Cambridge Preparation for the TOEFL Test This book also uses exercises skill by skill and with progress checks although arguably they are not as authentic as those offered by the ETS and Kaplan. Most of the sections of this book do not accurately represent TOEFL test questions. Its weakest sections are the reading and speaking sections but its listening and writing sections are very good. The model exams on the other hand, are very authentic, and there are seven of them, four in hard copy and three on the CD-ROM. The difficulty level is close to the real exam. Surprisingly, it is a more interesting book for students to work with than than Kaplans, Barrons or ETS, even though it may be less authentic.
Princeton Review's Cracking the TOEFL iBT , is the best book for writing and speaking. there are good strategies and drills although the speaking strategies are a bit difficult to use on the real exam It is a bit weak with listening giving too few samples and its reading passages are too easy compared to the real exam. Students like this best so it is a good one to use with students that hate tests as it seems less intimidating. It does not wast space with lengthy introductions and has practical techniques that make it a more manageable book for people with less time to prepare and it is more up to date in the reading section. It comes with a simulated TOEFL iBT test and audio exercises on an accompanying audio CD-ROM. It is not as authentic in terms of difficulty level of practice exams and there could be more of them but this is a useful book with lower level students who may feel too intimidated with the other books
Finally there is the Barron's TOEFL iBT , which is really a book that is for the advanced student who already knows the test and just wants tips and practice and it gives 8 practice test but if you want even more you can get Barron's Practice Exercises for the TOEFL with Audio CDs which gives over 1000 practice exercises and explanations for both the paper-based and the internet-based versions of the TOEFL. The latter is not great for advice or tips but does give a lot of practice. Some have commented that the difficulty level of both these books are a bit advanced but this can be seen as a good thing, since the most annoying thing is to do practice tests and then find out they are way easier than the real ones! Many of the more advanced students love this book because it is so comprehensive and authentic.
TOEFL Tip #3: Speaking: Have a structure to follow for the speaking test Task 3
TOEFL speaking test part 3 introducing an announcement, policy change or letter that two people comment on and typically involves one speaker giving a strong opinion in response. A good typical structure then is to
Stretch your language with transition phrases
Eg in the passage, an announcement communicates a change in parking policy. The reason given for it is that ,,,,,,,,,
Use cleft sentences
The reason that the woman is opposed to the plan is.......
For model practice sentences, reflections and assessments click here
............................[more on this ] ...........................................................[click to keep reading - this is continued on TOEFL Blog along with other tips]
- Briefly mention the issue, announcement and the general reason for it
- Give the overall reaction by the speakers
- Talk about two reasons why one or more of the speakers is for or against the issue
Stretch your language with transition phrases
Eg in the passage, an announcement communicates a change in parking policy. The reason given for it is that ,,,,,,,,,
Use cleft sentences
The reason that the woman is opposed to the plan is.......
For model practice sentences, reflections and assessments click here
............................[more on this ] ...........................................................[click to keep reading - this is continued on TOEFL Blog along with other tips]
TOEFL TIP #4 Speaking Know the 7 Common Question Types for Task 1
In Task 1 of TOEFL Speaking, you will answer a personal question. 15 seconds is not a lot of time to prepare and 45 seconds is not particularly long so this presents special challenges. You have 15 seconds to prepare and 45 seconds to speak.
There are 7 common types of questions. Each type uses different grammar and vocabulary. Practicing one type helps you with others. The most important thing is to practice inside the time limits.
Here are the types with simple examples:
For model practice, reflections and assessments click here
There are 7 common types of questions. Each type uses different grammar and vocabulary. Practicing one type helps you with others. The most important thing is to practice inside the time limits.
Here are the types with simple examples:
- Preference – Which city in the world would you like to visit?
- Imaginary – If you could choose one possession you value most, what would it be?
- Favorite – If you had to take a visitor to one place in your country, where would you go?
- Characteristics – Describe the characteristics of an ideal marriage partner.
- Description – Talk about a book you enjoyed reading.
- Explanation – Explain how birthdays are celebrated in your country.
- Experience – Talk about a goal you set and accomplished.
For model practice, reflections and assessments click here
TOEFL Tip #5 Speaking: Use Your 15 Seconds Wisely for Task 1 – A Simple Note-Taking Method
Many test takers freeze during the 15‑second preparation time.
But you don’t need full sentences. You just need keywords to guide you.
Follow this simple 4‑step organization when you speak:
A: Argument2–3 words
R1: Reason 11–2 words
→ Example just “e.g.”
R2: Reason 21–2 words
→ Example just “e.g.”
So…just “so.”That’ it. Don’t write full sentences. Your brain will fill in the rest when you speak.
For model practice, note-taking model, speaking model, reflections and assessments click here
But you don’t need full sentences. You just need keywords to guide you.
Follow this simple 4‑step organization when you speak:
- Argument – Direct answer to the question.
- Reason 1 + short example.
- Reason 2 + short example.
- So… – One or two more details to finish strong.
A: Argument2–3 words
R1: Reason 11–2 words
→ Example just “e.g.”
R2: Reason 21–2 words
→ Example just “e.g.”
So…just “so.”That’ it. Don’t write full sentences. Your brain will fill in the rest when you speak.
For model practice, note-taking model, speaking model, reflections and assessments click here
TOEFL Tip #6 Speaking: Sound Natural – Avoid the Robot Voice
Many test takers memorize rigid templates like "I have two reasons. Firstly… Secondly… In conclusion…"
This sounds like a robot. TOEFL examiners prefer natural, conversational English.
Try these three small changes instead:
1. Use a short, natural introduction (5–7 seconds)Don't just repeat the question. Add a tiny personal comment first.
"That's an interesting question. I've never thought about it before, but I guess…"
"Well, I don't plan to get married until later in life, and it's hard to know what really suits you, but I think the most important are…"
2. List 2 reasons naturally – not like a textbook. Instead of "Firstly… Secondly…", try:
"There are two reasons I think this way. First…"
"Another reason is…"
"Also…"
3. Use "If…" to give examples
Examples are easier when you start with If.
"If you can't trust your partner, you'll always feel worried."
"If a couple communicates well, they can solve almost any problem."
Important: Don't memorize one template for every question. Each question is different. A flexible, natural response is better than a perfect but stiff answer.
For model practice task, model answer, reflections and assessments click here
This sounds like a robot. TOEFL examiners prefer natural, conversational English.
Try these three small changes instead:
1. Use a short, natural introduction (5–7 seconds)Don't just repeat the question. Add a tiny personal comment first.
"That's an interesting question. I've never thought about it before, but I guess…"
"Well, I don't plan to get married until later in life, and it's hard to know what really suits you, but I think the most important are…"
2. List 2 reasons naturally – not like a textbook. Instead of "Firstly… Secondly…", try:
"There are two reasons I think this way. First…"
"Another reason is…"
"Also…"
3. Use "If…" to give examples
Examples are easier when you start with If.
"If you can't trust your partner, you'll always feel worried."
"If a couple communicates well, they can solve almost any problem."
Important: Don't memorize one template for every question. Each question is different. A flexible, natural response is better than a perfect but stiff answer.
For model practice task, model answer, reflections and assessments click here
Tip # 7 TOEFL Speaking Task 2: The Opinion Task: Follow a simple structure, follow a template of phrases and reduce hesitation that indicates struggle
What is Task 2?
You will hear or read a question that gives two contrasting opinions (sometimes called a "paired choice").
You must choose one side and explain why using reasons and examples.
Prep time: 15 seconds
Speaking time: 45 seconds
Recorded answer
Common Question Types in Task 2
Type
Example
1. Preference
Some people treat parents as friends; others prefer traditional roles. Which do you prefer?
2. Which is better?
Is it better to study alone or in groups?
3. Which will happen?
Will printed books disappear or remain?
4. Hypothetical choice
Would you take a visitor to mountains or a beach?
5. Which argument do you favor?
Are zoos cruel or educational?
Three Key Strategies for Task 2 I recommend are:
Strategy 1: Develop a simple process of Opinion + 2 Reasons + Examples + Counterargument
Don’t overcomplicate it. Follow this simple structure:
Steps
1. State your opinion clearly (5 seconds)
2. Give reason 1 + example (use If A then B)
3. Give reason 2 + example (use If A then B)
4. (Optional) Mention the other side briefly (counterargument)
5. Finish (5 seconds)
Note Use "If… then…" for examples:
If you don’t have trust in your partner, you may always think the worst of them. This will lead to many arguments.
Strategy 2: Use a Simple Template (But Don't Sound Robotic)
Practice with this structure until it feels natural:
"I believe that…"
"The first reason I think… is because…"
"If… then… For example…"
"The second reason I think… is because…"
"If… then… For example…"
"So that’s why…"
Model Answer Using This Template:
Yes, I know it’s popular these days to put children in pageants. I think children should not be allowed to perform in beauty pageants. I say this for the following reasons.
First, it’s not good for the kids. If they’re on stage, they get a lot of attention. If they get too much attention, they’ll always want this attention — even at school — and this can make them spoiled.
Second, it’s dangerous and can invite dangerous people who might try to harm them. A good example is a murder I read about a few years ago of a child pageant winner.
So I think it’s best if parents don’t put their children through all this hardship.
Strategy 3: Sound Fluent – Reduce Hesitation
Bad hesitation (struggling for words):
"I think… that the… environment uhh… should be protected… The… The environment is… vi…vital for… for… our… uhmmm… future."
Good hesitation (smooth and natural):
"Well… of course the environment is important. I think most people… would probably say it’s important. The reason?… Well… I guess the main reason is… that we depend on it. We should make sure it’s good… for our future."
Tips for smoother speaking:
Use "Well…" or "Of course…" or "The thing is…" to buy thinking time.
Pause between phrases, not in the middle of words.
If you forget a word, say "What’s the word…" or "You know…" instead of "uhhh".
Practice Question (Task 2 – Preference Type)
Some people think the best way to get your news is through the internet. Others think it is best through traditional means like newspapers or television. Which do you prefer and why? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
⏱ 15 seconds to prepare
⏱ 45 seconds to speak
What to Write in 15 Seconds
Text
Opinion: Internet – faster, more choice
R1: Get news instantly
If waiting → outdated info
e.g. stock prices, sports scores
R2: Choose what to follow
If only TV → limited topics
e.g. I follow tech news only
Counter: I know newspapers are reliable, but...
For model practice task, reflections and assessments click here
You will hear or read a question that gives two contrasting opinions (sometimes called a "paired choice").
You must choose one side and explain why using reasons and examples.
Prep time: 15 seconds
Speaking time: 45 seconds
Recorded answer
Common Question Types in Task 2
Type
Example
1. Preference
Some people treat parents as friends; others prefer traditional roles. Which do you prefer?
2. Which is better?
Is it better to study alone or in groups?
3. Which will happen?
Will printed books disappear or remain?
4. Hypothetical choice
Would you take a visitor to mountains or a beach?
5. Which argument do you favor?
Are zoos cruel or educational?
Three Key Strategies for Task 2 I recommend are:
Strategy 1: Develop a simple process of Opinion + 2 Reasons + Examples + Counterargument
Don’t overcomplicate it. Follow this simple structure:
Steps
1. State your opinion clearly (5 seconds)
2. Give reason 1 + example (use If A then B)
3. Give reason 2 + example (use If A then B)
4. (Optional) Mention the other side briefly (counterargument)
5. Finish (5 seconds)
Note Use "If… then…" for examples:
If you don’t have trust in your partner, you may always think the worst of them. This will lead to many arguments.
Strategy 2: Use a Simple Template (But Don't Sound Robotic)
Practice with this structure until it feels natural:
"I believe that…"
"The first reason I think… is because…"
"If… then… For example…"
"The second reason I think… is because…"
"If… then… For example…"
"So that’s why…"
Model Answer Using This Template:
Yes, I know it’s popular these days to put children in pageants. I think children should not be allowed to perform in beauty pageants. I say this for the following reasons.
First, it’s not good for the kids. If they’re on stage, they get a lot of attention. If they get too much attention, they’ll always want this attention — even at school — and this can make them spoiled.
Second, it’s dangerous and can invite dangerous people who might try to harm them. A good example is a murder I read about a few years ago of a child pageant winner.
So I think it’s best if parents don’t put their children through all this hardship.
Strategy 3: Sound Fluent – Reduce Hesitation
Bad hesitation (struggling for words):
"I think… that the… environment uhh… should be protected… The… The environment is… vi…vital for… for… our… uhmmm… future."
Good hesitation (smooth and natural):
"Well… of course the environment is important. I think most people… would probably say it’s important. The reason?… Well… I guess the main reason is… that we depend on it. We should make sure it’s good… for our future."
Tips for smoother speaking:
Use "Well…" or "Of course…" or "The thing is…" to buy thinking time.
Pause between phrases, not in the middle of words.
If you forget a word, say "What’s the word…" or "You know…" instead of "uhhh".
Practice Question (Task 2 – Preference Type)
Some people think the best way to get your news is through the internet. Others think it is best through traditional means like newspapers or television. Which do you prefer and why? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
⏱ 15 seconds to prepare
⏱ 45 seconds to speak
What to Write in 15 Seconds
Text
Opinion: Internet – faster, more choice
R1: Get news instantly
If waiting → outdated info
e.g. stock prices, sports scores
R2: Choose what to follow
If only TV → limited topics
e.g. I follow tech news only
Counter: I know newspapers are reliable, but...
For model practice task, reflections and assessments click here
Tip #8 TOEFL Speaking Task 3: The Campus Announcement Task: Follow a simple structure to fit it all in, devise simple note taking, have template phrases
What is Task 3? You will read a short announcement or policy change, then listen to a conversation between two students (a man and a woman). One student will react strongly. Then you answer a question.
- Prep time: 30 seconds
- Speaking time: 60 seconds
- Question type: Summarize the announcement AND explain the student's opinion
Here are some strategies
1. Follow a Simple 5‑Step Structure
Step What to do Time
1 State the announcement / change / policy 10 sec
2 Give the reason for the change (from the reading) 10–20 sec
3 Say whether the man or woman has a positive or negative reaction 5 sec
4 Give 2–3 reasons why they feel that way (from the listening) 15–20 sec
5 End with a short summary sentence5 sec
Total: 60 seconds
2. Devise a good note taking strategey
Example Notes (What to Write in 30 Seconds)Let's say the announcement is: University raising parking fees.
Your notes could look like this:
text
C/A/P: Parking fees up
Reason: Reduce cars + raise money O: + or - : + (positive)
R1: Discourage driving to campus
R2: More revenue for maintenance
That's all you need.
3. Have some useful template phrases
Use these to help you speak smoothly:
Phrases
Announcement"The new policy states that…" / "The university announced that…"
Reason"The reason for this change is…" / "This will…"
Reaction"The man/woman's reaction is positive/negative."
Reasons"He/she thinks that…" / "He/she points out that if… then…"
Summary"So she/he believes that…" / "That's why he/she feels this way."
For model listening passage practice, speaking example, reflections and assessments click here
Tip #9 TOEFL Speaking Task 4 (The Academic Lecture) Know What the Lecturer Is Doing; Use Reported Speech (Present Tense); Begin with the Topic and Definition; Don’t Panic If You Miss Something;
Paraphrase — Don’t Copy
What is Task 4?
You will read a short academic passage (45 seconds), then listen to a professor’s lecture (1.5–2.5 minutes). The lecture supports or adds detail to the reading — it does not argue against it. Then you answer a question.
Key Strategies for Task 4
Strategy 1: Know What the Lecturer Is Doing
The professor is **NOT** arguing with the reading. The professor is:
Action Meaning Useful phrase
Giving examples Listing specific cases "The speaker lists…"
Adding details Explaining more deeply "The speaker gives the example of…"
Telling a story Using a personal experience "The speaker relates an experience whereby…"
|
Breaking into parts | Dividing a concept into stages or types | *"The professor breaks this down into…"* |
Strategy 2: Use Reported Speech (Present Tense)
Verb Example
States "The article states that…"
Mentions "The professor mentions that…"
Points out "He points out that…"
Elaborates "She elaborates on the topic of…"
Lists "He lists three examples of…"
Illustrates "She illustrates this with…"
Defines "The reading defines… as…"
### Strategy 3: Begin with the Topic and Definition
Always start by saying what the reading is about and the definition.
"The reading is about [topic]. It is defined as…"*
Strategy 4: Don’t Panic If You Miss Something
Task 4 is the hardest part of TOEFL Speaking. It’s normal to miss a word or idea. Keep going. Paraphrase what you did understand.
Strategy 5: Paraphrase — Don’t Copy
Change the words and sentence structure. Instead of *"The first stage is infancy"*, say *"According to the professor, the earliest stage happens during babyhood."*
For model practice reading & listening passage, model speaking sample, reflections and assessments click here
You will read a short academic passage (45 seconds), then listen to a professor’s lecture (1.5–2.5 minutes). The lecture supports or adds detail to the reading — it does not argue against it. Then you answer a question.
- Prep time: 30 seconds
- Speaking time: 60 seconds
- Goal: Summarize key points from the lecture that relate to the reading
Key Strategies for Task 4
Strategy 1: Know What the Lecturer Is Doing
The professor is **NOT** arguing with the reading. The professor is:
Action Meaning Useful phrase
Giving examples Listing specific cases "The speaker lists…"
Adding details Explaining more deeply "The speaker gives the example of…"
Telling a story Using a personal experience "The speaker relates an experience whereby…"
|
Breaking into parts | Dividing a concept into stages or types | *"The professor breaks this down into…"* |
Strategy 2: Use Reported Speech (Present Tense)
Verb Example
States "The article states that…"
Mentions "The professor mentions that…"
Points out "He points out that…"
Elaborates "She elaborates on the topic of…"
Lists "He lists three examples of…"
Illustrates "She illustrates this with…"
Defines "The reading defines… as…"
### Strategy 3: Begin with the Topic and Definition
Always start by saying what the reading is about and the definition.
"The reading is about [topic]. It is defined as…"*
Strategy 4: Don’t Panic If You Miss Something
Task 4 is the hardest part of TOEFL Speaking. It’s normal to miss a word or idea. Keep going. Paraphrase what you did understand.
Strategy 5: Paraphrase — Don’t Copy
Change the words and sentence structure. Instead of *"The first stage is infancy"*, say *"According to the professor, the earliest stage happens during babyhood."*
For model practice reading & listening passage, model speaking sample, reflections and assessments click here
Tip #10 TOEFL Speaking Task 4 (The Academic Lecture) Use the Zig-zag note-taking strategy
Why Zigzag Notes?During Task 4, you have only 30 seconds to prepare after listening to a 1.5–2.5 minute lecture. You cannot write everything. You need notes that are:
- Fast to write
- Easy to read at a glance
- Organized by topic, subtopics, and examples
How to Take Zigzag NotesInstead of writing in straight lines down the page, you write across and then down in a zigzag pattern. This separates main ideas from details and examples.
For model note taking example, practice, reflections and assessments click here
Tip #11 TOEFL Speaking Task 5 (The Dialogue) Use the 2 column method note-taking strategy, Modify your reason (alter the one given by speaker) when giving your opinion
What is Task 5?
You will listen to a conversation between two students (about 1.5–2.5 minutes). One student has a personal problem. The other student gives suggestions. Then you answer a question.
Roommate problem My roommate is too noisy when I study
Scheduling problem I have two exams on the same day
Money problem I can't afford the spring break trip
Time management I have work and class at the same time
Conflict with a friend My friend is angry at me
Strategy 1: Simple Note-Taking – The Two-Column Method
During the conversation, divide your paper into two columns: Man and Woman (or Speaker A and Speaker B). Write only fragments.
Note-Taking Template Man Woman
Problem
Solution 1
→ Response
Solution 2
→ Response
Strategy 2: Offer a Modified Reason
At the end, you must choose a solution (or offer an alternative). But don't just repeat the conversation. Add a new or modified reason for your choice.
Instead of saying: "I think they should lend Bo money because the woman suggested it."
Say: "I think lending Bo money is better because if they go somewhere cheaper, they might feel disappointed the whole trip. Borrowing money is uncomfortable for Bo, but the experience together is worth it."
See the difference? You took the original idea and added your own reasoning.
For model note taking example, Dialogue listening practice, model response, reflections and assessments click here
You will listen to a conversation between two students (about 1.5–2.5 minutes). One student has a personal problem. The other student gives suggestions. Then you answer a question.
- No reading – listen only
- Prep time: 20 seconds
- Speaking time: 60 seconds
- Task: Summarize the problem and solutions, then give YOUR opinion on which solution is best (or offer an alternative)
Roommate problem My roommate is too noisy when I study
Scheduling problem I have two exams on the same day
Money problem I can't afford the spring break trip
Time management I have work and class at the same time
Conflict with a friend My friend is angry at me
Strategy 1: Simple Note-Taking – The Two-Column Method
During the conversation, divide your paper into two columns: Man and Woman (or Speaker A and Speaker B). Write only fragments.
Note-Taking Template Man Woman
Problem
Solution 1
→ Response
Solution 2
→ Response
Strategy 2: Offer a Modified Reason
At the end, you must choose a solution (or offer an alternative). But don't just repeat the conversation. Add a new or modified reason for your choice.
Instead of saying: "I think they should lend Bo money because the woman suggested it."
Say: "I think lending Bo money is better because if they go somewhere cheaper, they might feel disappointed the whole trip. Borrowing money is uncomfortable for Bo, but the experience together is worth it."
See the difference? You took the original idea and added your own reasoning.
For model note taking example, Dialogue listening practice, model response, reflections and assessments click here