toefl words for essay

Toefl Preparation Online Courses, Free Questions & Sample Answers

Mastering TOEFL Writing: A Comprehensive Guide for Success

TOEFL Writing Guide 2023

Welcome to the “TOEFL Writing Guide,” your ultimate resource for mastering the Writing section of the TOEFL iBT test! Whether you’re a beginner or aiming to refine your skills, this comprehensive guide offers essential strategies, tips, and high-scoring essay samples. Let’s embark on this writing adventure together and achieve excellence in the TOEFL exam!

Integrated writing task:, independent writing task:, developing strong arguments:, enhancing language proficiency:, time management and practice:, actual practice:, sample essay prompts and model answers:, conclusion:, looking for help in other sections, understanding the format of the toefl writing section.

Before diving into the specifics of each task, let’s understand the format and structure of the TOEFL Writing section. This section assesses your ability to write in English in an academic environment and consists of two distinct tasks: Integrated Writing and Independent Writing.

Table: Overview of TOEFL Writing Section Tasks, Time Allotment, and Scoring Criteria

Task	Description	Time Allotment	Scoring
Integrated Writing	Summarize a passage and lecture on an academic topic.	Approximately 20 minutes	Effectiveness of combining information from both sources
Independent Writing	Provide a response to a question or statement on a general topic.	Approximately 30 minutes	Clarity of expression, coherence of ideas, and quality of writing

Key Points:

The total time for both tasks is 50 minutes.
You can type your responses on a computer for the TOEFL iBT or handwrite them for the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition.
Scoring is based on the Writing Scoring Guides (Rubrics), considering aspects like coherence, development, organization, and language use.

The Integrated Writing task combines reading, listening, and writing skills. You will read a passage on an academic topic and listen to a related lecture. Your task is to summarize the key points from both sources and demonstrate your ability to effectively combine the information.

In the Integrated Writing task, you will need to:

Read a Passage: The reading passage typically presents a viewpoint on an academic topic or concept. It may contain arguments, examples, and evidence to support the main idea.
Listen to a Lecture: The lecture complements the information provided in the reading passage. It may present contrasting or supporting viewpoints, additional examples, or explanations.
Summarize and Combine Information: After reading the passage and listening to the lecture, you must combine the essential points from both sources. Your summary should highlight the main ideas and key arguments presented in both the reading and the lecture.
Write Your Response: Your response should be a well-structured essay that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Your ability to effectively summarize and synthesize information from the reading and the lecture will be crucial for a high score.

Example Question: Summarize the main points from the reading passage and the lecture. Explain how the lecture challenges the ideas presented in the reading passage.

Model Answer: The reading passage discusses the benefits of renewable energy, emphasizing its positive impact on the environment and long-term sustainability. The lecture further supports these benefits by providing specific examples of successful solar energy projects. However, the lecture also challenges the reading by raising concerns about the initial costs of implementing renewable energy solutions. In conclusion, both the reading and the lecture underscore the significance of embracing renewable energy to address climate change.

The Independent Writing task requires you to express your opinion on a general topic. You will receive a question or statement and must provide a well-structured and coherent response based on your knowledge and experience.

In the Independent Writing task, you will need to:

Understand the Prompt: The prompt may ask for your opinion on a specific issue, your preference between two options, or your response to a statement. Make sure to grasp the central idea and requirements of the prompt.
Develop a Clear Thesis Statement: Your thesis statement should clearly state your position or opinion on the topic. It will serve as the main argument that you will support throughout your essay.
Organize Your Ideas: Structure your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each body paragraph should present a separate supporting point, with relevant examples and evidence.
Support Your Arguments: Use specific examples, personal experiences, or evidence from your knowledge to support your points. The more specific and detailed your examples, the stronger your arguments will be.
Write Coherently: Ensure that your essay flows smoothly from one idea to another. Use appropriate transitions between paragraphs and sentences to maintain the overall coherence of your writing.

Example Question: Do you agree or disagree with the statement, “Technology has had a positive impact on modern communication”? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

Model Answer: I agree that technology has had a positive impact on modern communication. Technological advancements, such as the internet and smartphones, have revolutionized the way people communicate globally. Instant messaging and social media platforms allow individuals to connect with others across borders, bridging cultural differences and promoting global understanding. However, it is crucial to balance technology usage to avoid overreliance and potential negative effects on face-to-face communication.

Effective Essay Organization:

A well-organized essay is the backbone of a high-scoring TOEFL Writing response. To begin, your essay should have a clear introduction that introduces the topic and presents a strong thesis statement. Each body paragraph must have a topic sentence that supports the thesis, followed by relevant supporting details and examples. Utilizing proper transitions between paragraphs ensures a logical flow of ideas and enhances the overall coherence of your essay.

In the Integrated Writing task, your ability to extract essential points from the reading and listening passages is crucial for constructing a well-rounded response. In the Independent Writing task, focus on forming compelling arguments and support them with relevant examples and reasoning. Striking the right balance between personal experiences and evidence from the provided sources strengthens your arguments and demonstrates critical thinking skills.

A rich vocabulary and grammatical accuracy are essential for effective academic writing. Learn and incorporate advanced vocabulary relevant to various topics to elevate your essay’s language and impress the evaluators. Additionally, use sentence variety to contribute to a polished writing style and avoid common errors and pitfalls.

Time management is critical during the TOEFL Writing section. Create a study plan that allocates sufficient time for practice, skill-building, and revision. Engage in timed practice sessions to simulate test conditions and improve your ability to write efficiently under pressure. Review and analyze your practice essays to pinpoint areas for improvement, allowing you to refine your skills over time.

To solidify your understanding of the concepts, take advantage of our practice questions and essay prompts specifically designed to simulate the TOEFL Writing section. Engage in mock tests to familiarize yourself with the test format and fine-tune your writing speed and accuracy.

Practice is key to mastering TOEFL Writing. Explore a collection of sample essay prompts for both Integrated and Independent Writing tasks. Analyze practice passages, lectures, and essays for the Integrated task, as well as diverse essay topics with model responses for the Independent task. These examples serve as valuable resources for practicing and honing your writing abilities.

By incorporating these writing tips and practicing consistently, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in the TOEFL Writing section. Remember, writing is a skill that can be honed with dedication and effort. Happy writing, and best of luck on your TOEFL journey!

Note: For comprehensive TOEFL Writing preparation, explore expert resources, practice questions, and writing tips available on our website. Together, we’ll help you become a confident and proficient writer for the TOEFL iBT test.

Scoring Resources

Explore the following scoring resources provided by ETS. Click on the links to view the files on ETS’s website.

Performance Descriptors for the TOEFL iBT ® Test (PDF) Descriptions of different performance levels on the TOEFL iBT test.
Scoring Guides (Rubrics) for TOEFL iBT Speaking Responses (PDF) Criteria to evaluate speaking responses.
Scoring Guides (Rubrics) for TOEFL iBT Writing Responses (PDF) Rubrics for writing assessment.

These resources will help you understand the scoring system and improve your performance on the test. Happy studying!

TOEFL Reading Guide 2023 : Boost your reading comprehension and answer various question types.
TOEFL Listening Guide 2023 : Hone your listening abilities and practice answering audio-based questions.
TOEFL Speaking Guide 2023 : Enhance your speaking proficiency and become familiar with different task formats.
TOEFL Writing Guide 2023 : Enhance your writing skills and become familiar with different task formats.

Let’s embark on this journey together to achieve excellence in the TOEFL exam!

Choose Your Test

Search Blogs By Category
College Admissions
AP and IB Exams
GPA and Coursework

Ultimate TOEFL Vocabulary List: The 327 Best Words to Know

Developing solid TOEFL vocabulary skills can be one of the most challenging parts of studying for the exam, but it's also one of the most important. Many TOEFL questions either ask you the definition of a word outright or require you to have knowledge of certain words in order to answer a question correctly. With so many words in the English language, which are the ones you need to know?

We’ve done the hard work for you and determined the 327 most useful TOEFL words to know. They’re all listed below, along with a definition and sample sentence for each. We also end with tips on how to use this list most effectively in order to be prepared for vocabulary on the TOEFL.

Worried about college applications? Our world-class admissions counselors can help. We've guided thousands of students to get into their top choice schools with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies.

How Did We Compile This TOEFL Vocabulary List?

To create this list, we first read through official TOEFL practice materials and made a list of all the words a person taking the TOEFL might struggle with. This was our primary source and finds words that you're more likely to see on the real test. Next, we cross-referenced our list with TOEFL vocabulary lists from other sites, such as Magoosh and TOEFL Vocabulary, and examined their overlap with our list.

Words that appeared especially frequently from our research was automatically added to the final TOEFL vocabulary list you see below, as well as a selection of other words deemed particularly useful to know for the TOEFL. Once the list of 327 best words was compiled, we added a definition and sample sentence to each one to help you better understand the words and how they are used.

The 327 TOEFL Words You Need to Know

Below are the 327 best TOEFL vocabulary words, in alphabetical order.


Abundant	Present in large quantities.	Living close to a lake means we have an abundant supply of water.
Accumulate	To gradually collect.	Each fall, leaves accumulate in our driveway.
Accurate	Correct; free from errors.	Make sure your address is accurate before submitting your online order.
Accustomed	Used to something.	Having 8AM classes means I’m accustomed to getting up early.
Acquire	To come into possession of.	When my grandmother died, I acquired her cookbook collection.
Adamant	Refusing to change an opinion.	The defendant was adamant that he was innocent.
Adequate	Enough to suit your needs.	Our house isn’t big, but it’s adequate for the two of us.
Adjacent	Close to or next to.	The park is adjacent to the school.
Adjust	To change something so it serves its purpose better.	The bike seat may be too high; you’ll probably need to adjust it.
Advantage	Something that makes it easier to achieve success.	His height gives him an advantage in basketball.
Advocate	To publicly support.	My aunt is a major advocate for women's’ rights.
Adverse	Unfavorable; against one’s desires.	I had an adverse reaction to my medication and had to stop taking it.
Aggregate	To combine.	We should aggregate our resources to share them more easily.
Aggressive	Assertive and pushy.	The salesperson was very aggressive when trying to get us to buy the television.
Allocate	To put aside for a specific purpose.	The village needs to allocate funds for building the new school.
Alternative	Another option or choice.	If the ATM is broken, an alternative solution is to stop by the bank.
Amateur	Someone who is inexperienced or not highly skilled in a particular area.	He’s an amateur soccer player and is still learning the rules of the game.
Ambiguous	Having several potential meanings; unclear and difficult to understand.	When I asked the HR manager what my chances were of getting the job, she gave me a very ambiguous reply.
Ambitious	Having large goals.	My son is very ambitious and hopes to be a millionaire by the time he’s thirty.
Amend	To change for the better; to improve.	I believe we should amend our country’s tax laws.
Ample	Plentiful.	Our new apartment has ample space for the two of us.
Anomaly	Deviation from the norm.	The basketball player is the team’s best free thrower, so his missing both shots was an anomaly.
Annual	Occurring yearly.	The annual company barbeque takes place every August.
Antagonize	To tease or be hostile towards a person or group.	The boy loves to antagonize his little sister by pulling her hair.
Attitude	Manner or feeling.	After she got grounded, the teenager had a bad attitude for the rest of the day.
Attribute	To give credit.	Be sure to attribute credit to your sources when writing a research paper.
Arbitrary	Based on a whim or random decision.	Flipping a coin is an arbitrary way to make a decision.
Arduous	Requiring a lot of effort.	After you cross the bridge, there’s an arduous walk up the hill.
Assuage	To lessen a negative feeling.	The mother assuaged her child’s fear of the dark.
Assume	To suppose without solid proof.	I assumed he was rich because he worked as a lawyer.
Augment	To increase or make larger.	She augments her regular salary by babysitting on the weekends.
Benefit	Something positive or advantageous.	A benefit of doing homework on Friday is that your weekend will be free.
Berate	To scold.	Our neighbor berated us after we broke his window playing baseball.
Bestow	To give as a gift.	The medal was bestowed upon him by the president.
Boast	To brag or talk with excessive pride.	He always boasts of his talents after he wins a game.
Boost	To help raise or increase something.	I gave him a pep talk to boost his self-esteem before his speech.
Brash	Rude and tactless.	The brash man always asked inappropriate questions.
Brief	Short (in terms of time).	It will only have a brief meeting, so you’ll still have plenty of time for lunch.
Brusque	Abrupt to the point of rudeness.	After being away for so long, I expected more than her brusque greeting.
Cacophony	A harsh, unpleasant mixture of noise.	The cuckoo clock shop lets off a cacophony every hour.
Cease	To stop.	I wish they would cease arguing.
Censure	To express strong disapproval.	Every parent in our district censured the education cuts.
Chronological	Arranged in order of time or date.	Put the historical events in chronological order to make them easier to study.
Clarify	To make clear; to remove confusion.	I didn’t understand the instructions, so I asked the teacher to clarify them.
Coalesce	To combine or grow together.	The people on the street eventually coalesced into a group.
Coerce	To force someone to do something against their will.	The young boy was coerced into stealing by his friends.
Cognizant	Being aware or having knowledge of something.	Before mountain climbing, you need to be cognizant of the risks.
Cohesion	Uniting; becoming one.	Water molecules show strong cohesion when they stick together.
Coincide	To occur at the same time.	This year Thanksgiving coincided with my birthday.
Collapse	To fall down or break down.	The old building finally collapsed, leaving nothing but a pile of rubble.
Collide	To hit one another with a forceful impact.	The two cars collided on the freeway.
Commitment	Dedication to a cause or activity.	Joining a school play is a big commitment. You’ll need to practice every evening.
Community	A group of people who live or work together.	The Chinese community in my city is hosting a New Year celebration next week.
Conceal	To hide.	The mountains concealed the ocean from view.
Concur	To agree.	He believes women should be paid as much as men, and I concur.
Conflict	A disagreement or fight.	The conflict between the two families has been going on for generations.
Constrain	To restrict or repress.	You should move your plant to a bigger pot, otherwise you’ll constrain its roots.
Contemplate	To consider thoughtfully.	I spend a lot of time contemplating what career I want to have.
Continuously	To go on without stopping.	My neighbors have been continuously blasting their music since last night.
Contradict	To give the opposite opinion.	I told the employees that sales were down, but my boss contradicted me and said sales were actually up.
Contribute	To give something (usually money or time) to a common fund or cause.	Every roommate contributes part of his paycheck to the grocery bill.
Convey	To make known.	I’ve conveyed my interest in working for that company.
Copious	Abundant.	He always takes copious notes during class to study later on.
Core	Central; of main importance.	Although many employees left the company, the core leadership remained.
Corrode	To gradually wear away.	The rust corroded the paint on my car.
Cumbersome	Burdensome; clumsy	Trying to carry four grocery bags at once was very cumbersome.
Curriculum	The courses given by a school or program.	Our school needs to add more music courses to its curriculum.
Data	Facts, statistics, or pieces of information.	The data from these graphs show that yearly temperatures are increasing.
Decay	To decline in health or excellence.	After the tree died, its wood began to decay.
Deceive	To trick or mislead.	He deceived me by pretending to be a millionaire.
Decipher	To find the meaning of.	The spy deciphered the secret code.
Declaration	An announcement.	He made a declaration to the office that he was quitting.
Decline	1. To politely refuse. 2. To deteriorate (especially in terms of health.)	1. I declined his offer of a ride home. 2. Her health has declined ever since she turned 70.
Degrade	To lower in quality.	My attempt at cake degraded into a crumbly mess.
Demonstrate	To show.	Let me demonstrate the proper way of throwing a football.
Deny	To state that something isn’t true.	He denied being the robber.
Deplete	To significantly decrease.	Your shopping sprees have depleted my savings.
Deposit	To deliver and leave an item.	Please deposit your books in the bin outside the library.
Desirable	Worth having or wanting.	Bravery is a desirable trait for firefighters to have.
Despise	To hate.	I despise early morning classes.
Detect	To locate something.	The police dog detected the missing child’s scent.
Deter	To discourage.	The warning signs on the house deterred trespassers.
Deviate	To differ from the norm.	I decided to deviate from my normal route home and took a shortcut.
Devise	To plan or create.	The coach devised a plan for winning the game.
Diatribe	A sharp criticism or attack.	The politician went into a diatribe against her opponent.
Digress	To wander from the main subject.	The teacher digressed from the lecture to discuss the weather.
Dilemma	A situation where one must choose between two difficult choices.	The student faced the dilemma of attending school sick or missing her exam.
Diminish	To shrink or reduce.	Sprinkle baking soda on the carpet to diminish the stain.
Dispose	To get rid of.	I need to dispose of this trash.
Disproportionate	Too large or small when compared to something else.	The piece of pie I received was disproportionately small.
Disrupt	To interrupt by causing a disturbance.	The protesters disrupted the politician’s speech.
Distort	To misrepresent.	The camera filter distorted the image.
Distribute	To give portions of something.	Distribute the materials evenly among the class.
Diverse	Showing a lot of variety.	This city has a very diverse population.
Divert	To cause a change of course.	Because of the accident, the police had to divert traffic down a side street.
Dynamic	Constantly changing.	The theater has dynamic shows, so you never know what you’ll see.
Ease	To reduce unpleasantness or difficulty.	This prescription will ease your allergies.
Efficient	Maximizing productivity.	Now that I’m following a schedule at work, I’m much more efficient.
Eliminate	To remove.	Our team lost the match and was eliminated from the competition.
Elite	A select, above-average group.	The elite detective team were also sent for when there were big crimes.
Eloquent	Moving speech or writing.	Her eloquent writing has gained her many fans.
Emphasize	To give special importance to when speaking or writing.	The teacher emphasized the due date of the project.
Endure	To suffer through something difficult with patience.	He has endured four knee operations so far.
Enhance	To intensify or magnify.	The falling snow enhanced the beauty of the small village.
Epitome	A perfect example of something.	The duchess is the epitome of class.
Equivalent	Equal.	Twenty-four is equivalent to two dozen.
Erroneous	Incorrect.	He apologized for his erroneous statement.
Estimate	An approximate value.	Try to get an estimate of the number of people attending the concert.
Evade	To avoid or escape.	By hiding in the bathroom, we were able to evade the intruder.
Evaluate	To assess.	At the end of the class, every student will evaluate how well the professor taught.
Evidence	Facts or information that help prove or disprove something.	These fossils are evidence of evolution.
Evolve	To gradually change.	The small school evolved into a world-class institution.
Exemplary	Worthy of imitation.	She is an exemplary student, and you should copy her study habits.
Exclude	To leave out.	The young boy was excluded from his friends’ soccer game.
Exclusive	Not admitting the majority.	We may not be able to get in since that club is very exclusive.
Expand	To increase in size.	Adding air to bike tires will cause them to expand.
Expertise	Expert knowledge or skill in a particular field.	The surgeon’s expertise is knee surgeries.
Exploit	To use selfishly.	The company exploited its workers by making them work long hours.
Expose	To reveal or unmask.	The emails presented exposed the company’s corruption.
Extension	An act of making something longer.	If you’re sick on the day the paper is due, the teacher may give you an extension on the due date.
Extract	To get or remove something.	The dentist extracted one of my teeth.
Famine	A time when there is an extreme lack of food.	Millions of children in Ethiopia died due to the famine there.
Feasible	Possible to do.	This study plan you made for me sounds feasible, even with my work schedule.
Finite	Having an end or limits.	Remember that life is finite; you’re not immortal.
Flaw	A feature that ruins the perfection of something.	I got the diamond for a reduced price since the stone had a flaw.
Fluctuate	To change continually.	I’m not sure what to wear since the temperature has been fluctuating so much.
Focus	The central point or idea.	The program is going to focus on environmental issues.
Fortify	To strengthen.	The king decided to fortify the castle walls to protect them during attacks.
Framework	A skeletal structure designed to support something.	Skyscrapers must have a strong framework to support all the floors.
Frivolous	Unnecessary; of little importance	You must stop spending your money on frivolous purchases.
Function	A purpose natural to a person or thing.	The function of petals is to attract insects to the plant.
Fundamental	Of primary importance.	Learning scales is fundamental to being a good piano player.
Gap	A space in between to objects.	Be careful to avoid the gap between the two steps.
Garbled	Communication that is distorted and unclear.	Our answering machine is so bad that people’s voices are always garbled.
Generate	To produce.	The fire generates heat, which keeps the room warm.
Grandiose	Pompous; overly important.	The actress had only one small part before she got grandiose ideas of her fame.
Hackneyed	Overused and unoriginal.	HIs poems contain many hackneyed phrases.
Haphazard	Lacking planning.	There was no schedule, so the event was very haphazard.
Harsh	Not gentle; unpleasant.	Her comments on my performance were very harsh and not kind at all.
Hasty	In a hurry.	In order to avoid the police, the robbers made a hasty retreat.
Hazardous	Full of risk.	The nuclear reactor has a lot of hazardous waste.
Hesitate	To pause, often due to reluctance.	She hesitated before entering the abandoned building.
Hierarchy	A ranking system.	In the office hierarchy, the manager is higher than the associate.
Hindrance	Something that causes delay or resistance.	Her hatred of public transportation is a hindrance when trying to get around New York City.
Hollow	Empty inside.	The dead tree is hollow.
Horror	An intense feeling of fear.	The haunted house filled me with horror.
Hostile	Extremely unfriendly.	My ex-boyfriend’s new girlfriend was very hostile towards me.
Hypothesis	An unproven idea that attempts to explain something.	You’ll need to conduct an experiment to test your hypothesis.
Identical	Exactly the same.	The twins were completely identical.
Illiterate	Unable to read.	Because he’d never been able to attend school, the man was illiterate.
Illustrate	To explain by using an example.	The professor illustrated the lesson with a personal story.
Impact	Effect or influence.	His moving words had a large impact on me.
Impair	To worsen.	Drinking alcohol will impair your driving abilities.
Implement	To carry out.	We will implement the new schedule starting next semester.
Imply	To strongly suggest.	My mother implied that I was the one who forgot to take out the trash.
Impose	To force upon.	After the riots, the mayor imposed a curfew on the town.
Impoverish	To reduce to poverty.	These medical bills are going to impoverish me.
Incentive	A reason to do something.	I hate my job, but the big paychecks are a good incentive to stick with it.
Incessant	Continuing without pause.	I can’t sleep because of the dog’s incessant barking.
Incidental	A minor part.	Don’t worry about your grade on this quiz; it’s only an incidental part of your grade.
Incite	To urge on.	The ringleader incited the soldiers to rebellion.
Inclination	A preference.	My inclination is to go to bed early.
Incompetent	Incapable; lacking ability.	The incompetent worker was fired from his job.
Inconsistent	Changing randomly.	His pitching has been very inconsistent all season.
Indefatigable	Untiring.	She is an indefatigable hiker and can walk all day.
Indisputable	Not able to be challenged.	She’s the indisputable star of the basketball team.
Ineffective	Not producing any major impact.	The drug was shown to be ineffective at curing cancer.
Inevitable	Unable to be avoided.	Even if you’re healthy, death is inevitable in the end.
Infer	To guess based on evidence.	I inferred that she was annoyed based on her body language.
Inflate	To increase in size.	Getting a promotion has really inflated his ego.
Influence	The ability to have an impact of something.	The older sister has been a positive influence on her younger siblings.
Inhibit	To hinder or restrain.	This cleaning spray inhibits the growth of bacteria.
Initial	The first.	She was the initial president of the company.
Inquiry	An investigation to determine the truth.	Congress launched an inquiry after the senator was accused of taking bribes.
Integral	Necessary to complete the whole.	You can’t quit. You’re an integral part of this team.
Integrate	To combine.	When making a cake, you need to fully integrate the wet and dry ingredients.
Interpret	To explain the meaning of something.	I need you to interpret this German speech for me.
Intervene	To come between people, objects, or an event and change what is happening.	When the toddlers couldn’t share their toys, their mothers had to intervene.
Intrepid	Fearless.	The intrepid mountain climber reached the top of Mt. Everest.
Intricate	Highly detailed.	The pattern on this blanket is so intricate.
Invasive	Intrusive.	We found the stranger’s questions too personal and very invasive.
Investigate	To examine or study.	The police are going to investigate the crime scene.
Irascible	Easy to anger.	Even though my grandfather seems irascible, he’s actually very loving.
Irony	The use of words to give a meaning opposite to their literal meaning.	“I love spending my Friday nights doing homework,” she said with irony.
Irresolute	Uncertain.	Not sure which direction to go in, he stood irresolute.
Jargon	Words specific to a certain job or group.	To be a successful doctor, you’ll need to learn a lot of medical jargon.
Jointly	Together.	The newlyweds jointly opened up a bank account.
Knack	A special talent or skill.	My brother has a real knack for solving tricky math problems.
Labor	Work or effort.	Building a house requires a lot of labor.
Lag	To fall behind.	I stayed with the front group of runners for the first few miles, but after that I began to lag.
Lampoon	To mock or ridicule.	The cartoonist lampooned the president’s speech.
Languish	To become weak; to be neglected.	During winter break, my plants languished since I was visiting my parents and couldn’t water them.
Lecture	A talk given to an audience.	The professor will give a 30 minute lecture before the quiz.
Leery	Wary.	I’m leery of taking the dark-looking shortcut.
Legitimate	Lawful.	The way he became mayor is completely legitimate.
Lenient	Merciful; less harsh.	The judge gave the criminal a lenient sentence due to his bad childhood.
Likely	Probable.	I don’t have much homework, so it’s likely I’ll be able to go out tonight.
Ludicrous	Ridiculous.	His claims about me are absolutely ludicrous.
Maintain	To continue at the same level.	She has maintained the same weight since high school.
Major	Very important.	This test is a major part of your final grade.
Manipulate	To influence, especially in an unfair way.	He tried to manipulate the results of the election.
Maximize	To increase to the greatest possible size.	The store’s goal this year is to maximize its profit.
Measure	To find the size and dimensions of something.	By measuring the tree, I found it was seven feet tall.
Mediocre	Ordinary, average.	The meal the chef made was only mediocre.
Mend	To fix.	My mother will mend the hole in my shirt.
Method	A way of doing something.	Her method for making bread takes three days.
Migrate	To move from one place to another.	Every fall, the geese migrate to Florida.
Minimum	The smallest or lowest amount possible.	You need to get a minimum of 70% on the test to pass the class.
Misleading	Giving the wrong idea.	The advertisement for the weight loss pills is very misleading since studies have shown they’re ineffective.
Modify	To change.	I need to modify my style so it looks more professional.
Morose	Gloomy, depressed.	The boy was morose after hearing he didn’t make the football team.
Negligent	Lazy, neglectful.	The negligent babysitter invited her friends over while the children were upstairs.
Nonchalant	Indifferent, unexcited.	I was hurt when my friend greeted me so nonchalantly.
Obey	To follow orders or instructions.	My dog always obeys me when I ask her to sit.
Obtain	To get.	The spy obtained the secret codes we need.
Obvious	Easily understood.	The large poster of Michael Jackson over her bed made it obvious who her favorite singer was.
Opponent	Someone on the opposite side for a game or contest.	The soccer player blocked her opponent’s shot at the goal.
Oppress	To unfairly burden.	For the past ten generations the royal family has oppressed the peasants by keeping them in poverty.
Origin	The source; where something began.	The explorers are trying to find the origin of the Nile.
Paradigm	A typical example of something.	This work of art is a paradigm of the period; you’ll see many examples of it in the museum.
Parsimonious	Frugal, stingy.	The parsimonious woman only donated a dollar to charity.
Partake	To join in.	My leg was feeling much better, so I decided to partake in the soccer match.
Partial	Preferring one option over others.	We can get strawberry ice cream, but I’m actually more partial to chocolate.
Paucity	Something existing in very small amounts; scarcity.	During the drought, the town had a paucity of fresh water.
Peak	The highest or most important point.	Winning the championship was the peak of his career.
Peripheral	Located on the side or edge.	There are some peripheral fights going on at the outdoor concert.
Permeate	To penetrate or pass through.	Let the maple syrup permeate your waffles before eating them.
Persist	To continue, especially when facing opposition.	I may have lost my last six games, but I will continue to persist trying to win.
Pertain	Relate.	How does your question pertain to the lecture?
Phase	A period or stage in a process.	In high school, I went through a phase where I only wore black clothes.
Poll	A record of opinions or votes.	The polls show that my candidate is going to win the election.
Potent	Powerful.	Only take one sleeping pill since they’re very potent.
Pragmatic	Practical, sensible.	Your boyfriend is too dramatic. I think you need a more pragmatic man.
Praise	To give approval or admiration.	The book is the best I’ve ever read; I can’t praise it enough.
Precede	To come before.	The flower girls preceded the bride when they walked down the aisle.
Precise	Exact.	When collecting data, it’s important that your measurements are very precise.
Prestigious	Having a high reputation.	Harvard is one of the most prestigious colleges in the United States.
Prevalent	Widespread.	If more people don’t start washing their hands, disease will become more prevalent.
Primary	First; most important.	Maeve’s primary goal in life is to become a doctor.
Prior	Previous or earlier.	Prior to becoming a teacher, Elena worked as a book editor.
Proceed	To continue doing something.	I’m sorry for interrupting; please proceed with your speech.
Progeny	Offspring.	The dog’s progeny all have yellow fur.
Promote	To further to progress of something.	I’m promoting this new indie movie so that more people will buy tickets to it.
Prosper	To do well.	Dave hopes his new business will prosper and make him a millionaire.
Proximity	Nearness in time or space.	The twins hated to be apart, so they bought houses in close proximity to each other.
Quarrel	Disagreement or fight; to have an argument.	Nina and her boyfriend always quarrel over money.
Range	The distance between two things, often the maximum and the minimum.	The range of ages at the concert spanned from 12 to 65.
Rank	An official position or station.	Archibald was promoted to the rank of first captain.
Rebuke	To sternly disapprove or reprimand.	After staying out too late, Grace received a rebuke from her parents.
Recapitulate	To give a brief summary.	At the end of his speech, the politician made sure to recapitulate his main points.
Recede	To retreat.	Two days after the flood, the seawater finally began to recede from our house.
Recommend	To present someone with confidence and approval.	I need to ask Mr. Smith if he’ll recommend me for this leadership position.
Reform	To make changes that improve something.	Melanie’s father is in charge of reforming to school system.
Regulate	To supervise or control a process so that it functions correctly.	Ben needs to regulate how much he eats in order to stay at a healthy weight.
Reinforce	To strengthen with added support.	The builders reinforced the house’s wooden frame with steel beams.
Reject	To say no to something that is offered.	Lydia rejected my invitation to the homecoming dance.
Release	To free; to allow to be known.	The CEO decided to release the company’s profits from last year.
Rely	To depend on.	I rely on coffee to get my through my mornings.
Reproach	To express disapproval or disappointment.	The coach reproached the players for failing to play their best.
Require	To need for a specific purpose.	The camping trip requires that every participant bring their own food and sleeping bag.
Resent	To feel bitterness or anger towards someone or something.	I’ve always resented my sister because she is my mother’s favorite child.
Resign	To give up an office or position.	Due to his declining health, the mayor decided to resign from office.
Resist	To withstand the effect of.	Resist the impulse to have ice cream for breakfast.
Resolve	To come to a firm decision.	Matt resolved to get better grades next semester by studying every night.
Restrict	To confine or keep within limits.	My doctor told me to restrict myself to one glass of wine a day.
Retain	To continue to do something or keep something.	I’ve decided to retain my normal hairstyle.
Retract	1. To draw back in. 2. To withdraw something after it’s found to be untrue.	1. I felt calmer after the lion retracted its claws. 2. After numerous errors were found, the newspaper retracted the story.
Retrieve	To bring back.	Alexis got out of the car to retrieve the ball her little brother had thrown.
Rhetorical	Used just for style or impact.	You aren’t expected to actually answer rhetorical questions.
Rigid	Stiff; unyielding.	The boys’ father was happy to see the base of the treehouse was rigid and sturdy.
Rotate	To turn.	Rotate the sculpture so I can see the other side.
Safeguard	Something that serves as protection or ensures safety.	A retirement fund is one way to safeguard your finances for the future.
Scrutinize	To very carefully examine.	The judges were looking for perfection, so they scrutinized every entry.
Section	A part of the whole.	This section of the stadium dressed completely in red.
Select	To choose.	Jane selected a blue dress to wear to the wedding.
Sequence	Things that follow each other in a certain order.	Librarians need to know how order books in the correct sequence.
Severe	1. Harsh or strict. 2. Grave, critical.	1. The robbers suffered severe consequences for stealing. 2. My uncle is currently battling a severe illness in the hospital.
Shallow	Not deep.	You don’t need to worry about getting your dress wet. The water is very shallow here.
Shelter	To protect from something harmful.	The empty barn gave the men shelter during the storm.
Shrink	To become smaller.	Hopefully this cream will cause my scar to shrink.
Significant	Important, noteworthy.	The Gettysburg Address was a significant event during the Civil War.
Source	A person, place, or thing where something was obtained.	You shouldn’t use Wikipedia as a source when writing school papers.
Sparse	Thinly scattered.	The farm was almost empty; there were just a few sparse trees here and there.
Specify	To clearly indicate which one.	You need to specify which size shirt you want before I can order it.
Speculate	To form a theory without strong evidence.	My sister loves to speculate on the private lives of celebrities.
Solitary	Alone; without others.	The hermit lives a solitary existence deep in the mountains.
Somber	Gloomy; depressing.	After losing the competition, the chess players were very somber.
Soothe	To calm or comfort.	The mother sang a lullaby to soothe her crying baby.
Squalid	Filthy and unpleasant.	The shelter was squalid and overcrowded.
Stable	Unlikely to change or fail.	We’re lucky to live in a country with such a stable government.
Stagnant	Sluggish, showing little movement.	With few new jobs created, the economy has remained stagnant for the past five years.
Strategy	A plan to reach a desired outcome.	The football team will need a good strategy to win the game tomorrow.
Subsequent	Coming after something in time.	The first king was a good ruler, but subsequent kings have all been corrupt.
Substitute	A person or thing acting in place of another.	If you don’t have sugar, honey makes a good substitute for this recipe.
Subtle	Difficult to notice right away.	Maya’s perfume was very subtle; you had to get close to her to smell it.
Sufficient	Enough to serve a particular purpose.	Make sure you have sufficient food for the camping trip.
Summarize	To briefly give the main points.	The class didn’t have time to read the book, so the professor summarized it for them.
Supervise	To oversee work or a process.	My dad didn’t think we were old enough to build the fort on our own, so he supervised us.
Supplant	To take the place of something else.	The king was supplanted by his treacherous younger brother who locked him in the dungeon.
Suspend	1. To temporarily stop. 2. To hang something from somewhere.	1. The power outage suspended the school concert. 2. The lamp is suspended from the high ceiling.
Suspicious	Having the belief that someone is doing something dishonest or illegal.	The couple became suspicious when they saw strange men removing their neighbor’s expensive electronics during the night.
Sustain	To keep going.	I stopped trying to sustain the friendship after he made fun of how I looked.
Symbolic	Serving as a symbol.	A cross is symbolic of Christianity.
Technical	Relating to a specific subject or craft.	The laptop manual is full of technical terms only a computer expert can understand.
Terminal	Situated at the end.	Everyone on the train must get off at the terminal stop.
Tolerate	To put up with.	I tolerate the rude man since he is my husband’s best friend.
Transfer	To move from one place to another.	Ben’s work is going to transfer him from Chicago to Detroit.
Transition	Changing from one state or condition to another.	The transition from student to employee can often take awhile to get used to.
Transparent	1. See-through material. 2. Easy to detect.	1. The glass vase is completely transparent. 2. Her attempt to flatter the movie star was very transparent.
Tuition	The fee for instruction at a school.	College tuition prices have gone up in recent decades.
Unobtrusive	Not attracting attention.	The prince’s bodyguards had mastered the art of being unobtrusive.
Unscathed	Unharmed.	Ian was lucky to walk away from the car crash unscathed.
Upbeat	Happy; optimistic.	Even when she’s having a bad day, my mom always has an upbeat attitude.
Unjust	Unfair.	Since I tried my hardest on the exam, I felt my teacher’s criticism of me was unjust.
Vacillate	To waver or be indecisive.	She vacillated between the two dresses before finally deciding to wear a skirt.
Valid	Just; well-founded.	The soldiers had valid concerns about the battles they’d be facing.
Vanish	To disappear quickly.	The plane vanished behind the clouds.
Vary	To be different from something else in a group.
Verdict	A judgement or decision.	The jury delivered a guilty verdict.
Vestige	A small trace of something that is disappearing or has already disappeared.	The empty castle still had a few vestiges of its former wealth.
Vial	A small container used to hold liquids.	The chemist carefully filled the vial with the bubbling solution.
Vilify	To speak poorly of; to slander.	Mark was vilified by his angry ex-girlfriend.
Voluminous	Taking up a lot of space.	The puffy wedding dress had voluminous sleeves.
Whereas	On the contrary.	I always save my money whereas my brother is constantly in debt.
Wholly	Completely.	The monk is wholly devoted to his faith.
Widespread	Occurring over a large region.	There is widespread poverty across that country.
Wilt	To droop and become limp.	Plants will wilt if you don’t water them regularly.

How to Use This TOEFL Vocabulary List

First, you should read through the list and identify any words you don’t know or are unsure of. If you’re even slightly unsure of a TOEFL vocabulary word, you’ll want to study it. Be sure to read the definition and sample sentence of words you feel confident on to be sure you understand them fully.

Once you have your TOEFL word list that you need to study, you’ll want to work on memorizing their definitions. You don’t need to memorize the sample sentences, but you should review them to ensure you understand how the word is used. You can also search for individual TOEFL words in Google news to find articles that include the word and give you an even better idea of how the word is actually used.

Flashcards are a great way to study TOEFL vocab words because they allow you to easily flip between the word itself on one side and its definition and sample sentence on the other side. You can make your own TOEFL flashcards or use a site such as Quizlet which lets you make online flashcards for free from your TOEFL vocabulary list.

The Best Way to Use Your TOEFL Flashcards

We recommend using the waterfall method to learn TOEFL words. If you're not sure what the waterfall method is, we break it down for you below.

Once you have your TOEFL vocabulary flashcards , you’ll go through those cards one by one. For each card whose definition you know easily, you’ll put it in a “Know It” pile. If you don’t know the definition of a particular TOEFL word, put it in a “Struggled” pile.

After you've gone through each of the cards once, pick up your “Struggled” pile. You'll now go through this pile again. For words where you know the definition, place them in a second “Know It” pile next to (but not combined with) the first “Know It” pile. For words you don’t know, make a new “Struggled” pile. Repeat this process, placing new “Know It” piles in a row from left to right. This creates your waterfall. Repeat this process until the “Struggled” pile has only a few words left.

Now, you’ll move back up the waterfall. Starting with the most recent “Struggled” pile, go through the flashcards until you know all the words in the pile. Then, add the most recent (the rightmost) “Know It” pile. Go through those words. If you miss any, go through the entire pile again until you get all of them right. It may take awhile to get through the entire pile, but this method will guarantee that you learn those TOEFL words! Continue this process until you get all the way back up the waterfall.

This is the best method to study vocab flashcards because you'll spend the majority of your time reviewing the words you struggle the most with, as opposed to just studying the entire stack over and over.

Conclusion: Studying TOEFL Vocabulary

Vocabulary is an important part of the TOEFL, and many questions on the exam require you to have a strong vocabulary. Use our list of the 327 best TOEFL vocabulary words in order to guide your studying.

Flashcards are one of the best ways to learn your TOEFL vocabulary list, and the waterfall method is a great method to use with TOEFL flashcards. Don’t stop studying a word until you’ve memorized its definition and understand how it’s used in sentences!

What's Next?

Vocab is an important part of the TOEFL, particularly the Reading section, but it's not all you need to know. Get all the info you need to ace the TOEFL Reading section here !

Want more information on how the TOEFL is scored? Check out our guide to learn exactly how the TOEFL is scored so you can maximize the number of points you get.

Practice tests are one of the best ways to prepare for the TOEFL. We've gathered information on the highest-quality TOEFL practice tests into one place so you have access to the best study materials!

Need to boost your TOEFL score? We have the industry's leading TOEFL prep program. Built by Harvard grads and SAT full scorers, our program offers individual review, interactive lessons, and realistic online practice, at an affordable price. It's the fastest way to get your target TOEFL score. And the best part? You can try it out for 5 days absolutely free of charge!

Trending Now

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Get Your Free

Find Your Target SAT Score

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect SAT Score, by an Expert Full Scorer

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading and Writing

How to Improve Your Low SAT Score

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading and Writing

Find Your Target ACT Score

Complete Official Free ACT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect ACT Score, by a 36 Full Scorer

Get a 36 on ACT English

Get a 36 on ACT Math

Get a 36 on ACT Reading

Get a 36 on ACT Science

How to Improve Your Low ACT Score

Get a 24 on ACT English

Get a 24 on ACT Math

Get a 24 on ACT Reading

Get a 24 on ACT Science

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

TOEFL Materials
DUOLINGO Materials
TOEFL Articles
DUOLINGO Articles

Ten Awesome Tips for the Writing Section of the TOEFL® Test

We know it can feel impossible to write two complete essays in 30 minutes!

But today, we have some awesome TOEFL writing tips that will help you feel cool and confident on test day.

The first five tips are for the TOEFL integrated writing question, task number one. The last five tips are for the TOEFL Writing for an Academic Discussion question, task number two.

Here's a quick summary of our top 10 TOEFL Writing Tips

Tip #1 – Pay careful attention to the reading passage because the listening passage will argue against each point made in the reading.
Tip #2 – Practice taking short, but precise notes during the listening passage. You will only get to listen to it once.
Tip #3 – Paraphrase the passages. One of the grading criteria on the TOEFL is vocabulary, and you will earn zero points if you simply quote the material.
Tip #4 – Use lots of transitional words and phrases. They will help you develop your essay and connect your ideas.
Tip #5 – Manage your time wisely. You only have 20 minutes to construct an essay of at least 250 words.
Tip #6 – Be sure to add to the discussion. Do not repeat points and ideas from the discussion in your response.
Tip #7 – Stick to a few simple verb tenses.
Tip #8 – Try to include multiple sentences with more than one clause.
Tip #9 – Plan to edit your essay for at least one minute at the end. There is no spellcheck on the TOEFL.
Tip #10 – Practice writing at home and ask a teacher or trained TOEFL expert to give you a grade and point out your weakness.

Task 1 (The Integrated Writing Task)

Tip #1: read, then listen.

Task one provides you with two passages, a reading passage, and a listening passage. The reading passage will appear first. You will have three minutes to read the passage and take notes. After that, the reading passage will disappear, and then the listening passage will play for two or three minutes. Then you have 20 minutes to write your essay.

Here is a breakdown of task one:

Integrated Writing: Task Breakdown

	The writing section instructions will be read aloud. You can skip this introduction.
	You will be given an academic passage to read. This passage will contain between 250-300 words. When the clock starts, you will have three minutes to read the passage. After that, the passage disappears and an audio lecture starts. However, the reading passage will return when it's time to write.
	A lecture that addresses the content of the reading will start to play. The lecture will last for two to three minutes.
	After the passage finishes, you will be asked a question. The question is almost always something like:
	The clock starts. You will have approximately 20 minutes to write an essay of at least 250 words. You must answer the question and report on the most important points from both the reading and listening.

It is important to read the reading passage first because the professor in the listening passage is going to directly contradict the author in the reading passage.

Therefore, if you sleep on the reading passage, when the lecture begins, you may miss some vital information that you must include in your writing.

Let’s look at an example from TST Prep’s TOEFL Test #13 that you can download for free here to practice before test day.

Here’s the reading passage:

The shrimping industry relies on trawls to catch shrimp. Trawls are huge nets that are dragged behind boats in order to catch shrimp. Other animals, like sea turtles, are often caught inside these nets and soon die without sufficient oxygen. To help reduce the number of accidental deaths to sea turtles, engineers created a Turtle Excluder Device (TED), that must now be installed in all shrimping trawls. This one simple invention has greatly reduced the number of sea turtle deaths per year for a number of reasons.

First, the TED was specifically designed to help sea turtles. The TED mechanism has a mechanical barrier in the middle of the net that prevents any animal larger than ten centimeters from getting caught deep inside . Once the animal hits this metal grid, it tilts downward, providing that animal with a clear path to exit. Smaller animals, like shrimp, pass through the metal guard and get caught in the end of the trawl net, as usual.

Second, in order to make sure that fishermen use the Turtle Excluder Device, the “ Shrimp-Turtle Law” was passed. It states that all trawling shrimping boats must have a TED installed . There are specific organizations in charge of monitoring shrimping vessels to ensure that their TEDs are properly installed and maintained.

Finally, America now tightly controls the import of shrimp. All shrimp products must come from a ship that is a certified user of TED-installed shrimping trawls . Countries, companies, or fishermen who do not comply with the “Shrimp-Turtle Law” are not allowed to sell their products in the US and some European countries. Since most shrimping businesses want to import their goods to as many locations as possible, they have decided to comply and install TEDs in their trawls.

Main Idea : Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) have reduced the number of sea turtle deaths
Reason 1 : TEDs designed to prevent large animals from getting caught
Reason 2 : All boats must have a TED installed
Reason 3 : Shrimp importing is now tightly controlled

Tip #2: Take good notes

It is very, very important to take good notes during Task 1, especially on the Listening passage . There are two reasons for this:

The reading passage will reappear after the lecture and be visible while you are writing. Therefore, while it is important to take note of the author’s position and main points, you don’t need to take as extensive notes on the reading passage.
You are expected to write more about the listening passage than the reading . That’s right! In your answer, you should write twice as much about the professor’s viewpoint and counterarguments then the author. Therefore, it is vital that you take good notes during the lecture.

I can’t emphasize this enough: take good notes on the Listening passage !

You will be expected to write twice as much about the content of the listening passage than the reading.

Here’s a link to that audio passage again so you can practice taking notes and compare yours to my own.

Tip #3: Don't quote!

For the TOEFL integrated writing task, you are expected to explain the positions of the author and the professor, in your own words! It is very important, therefore, to paraphrase everything.

This is especially true of the reading passage. Remember, while you are writing your essay, the reading section will be right in front of you. If you directly quote the author, the TOEFL e-rater system will pick up on this and it can lead to a reduction in your score!

For example, let’s say that the reading passage states:

“ There are many who argue that corn ethanol should replace fossil fuel gas as the primary source for running cars. ”

DON’T say in your answer: “ The author discusses how there are many who argue that corn ethanol should replace fossil fuel gas as the primary source for running cars. ”

This is a huge mistake that many students make!

Instead, paraphrase the author’s position, such as: “The author discusses the advantages of switching from fossil fuels to the alternative energy source: corn-based ethanol.”

Tip #4: Use lots of transitional words and phrases

Transitional words and phrases are a crucial component of your writing, especially in TOEFL Writing task one. You will have to transition between contrasting points of view in both the reading and listening passage. The best way to keep your essay cohesive is to transition between ideas with these discourse markers.

They will prove to the TOEFL grader and e-rater that you have a firm grasp on both the English language and North American academic essay structure

Here is a list of some common transitional words and phrases:

TRANSITION WORDS AND PHRASES

	- Reporting on points from the listening passage in the body paragraphs - When explaining your reasons and developing your examples
	- Reporting on points from the listening passage in the body paragraphs - When explaining your reasons and developing your examples
	- When you are connecting your example to the topic
	- When transitioning to the point of view of the listening in body paragraphs - When recognizing the opposing argument
	-The first sentence of each body paragraph - When providing more than one reason for your stance on the topic
	- Located in the conclusion paragraph, which is optional for this essay - In the last sentence of your response if you include a conclusion

If you want to see some of these transition words in action, check out our article Topics and Sample Essays for the Writing Section of the TOEFL Test(2024)

Tip #5: Time management

For the integrated writing task, you only have 20 minutes to write your essay! Therefore, while time management is important throughout the TOEFL, it is especially important on this task.

You should spend approximately two minutes taking notes and outlining your answer, three minutes writing your introduction paragraph, eleven minutes writing the body paragraphs, two minutes for the conclusion, and the last three minutes for editing.

Here is the time breakdown for task one of the TOEFL writing section:

Integrated Essay Time Breakdown

	Gather your notes and outline the essay
	Write your introduction
	Write your body paragraphs (2-3)
	Write your conclusion
	Edit your essay

Be sure to download our Complete Practice Test right here so you can practice the entire test.

…but here is the essay response to the TOEFL integrated question on Turtle Excluder Devices.

The reading and the lecture are about the pros and cons of the Turtle Excluder Device (TED). The writer believes there are many benefits to the use of TED, and that it has decreased the number of sea turtles caught in trawls by shrimpers. The speaker in the listening passage disagrees. He claims there are still many issues with TED, and challenges each of the writer’s points.

First, the article posits that the design of TED includes a metal barrier inside the net that prevents larger animals from getting caught. Additionally, it says, TED also provides a path for the sea turtles to exit. However, the professor points out that small and mid-sized turtles still get caught deeper in the trawls. He states this is because the metal barrier only prevents creatures larger than ten centimeters to pass through it.

Also, the author notes that laws have been passed requiring shrimp boats to have TED and use it properly. The lecturer rebuts this argument. He says that it is impossible for organizations to regulate the fishermen while they are fishing for shrimp and that they can just remove the TED right before putting the nets into the ocean. Furthermore, he argues that they are inclined to do this because sometimes TED can also prevent shrimp from passing into the depths of the trawls, which decreases their profits.

Another reason the writer feels that TED is beneficial is that under import regulations, the shrimp sold in the US can only come from suppliers who are certified TED users. Again, the speaker holds there are flaws in this argument. He suggests that there are many boat owners who claim to be TED-certified, but, in reality, have fake documentation. The lack of consistency in TED certification from country to country allows many to deceive ports and sell their shrimp anyway.

To sum up, both the author and the lecturer hold conflicting views about TED.

Five more to go…

Still with me?

Awesome (just like these tips).

Now, let’s take a look at our last five tips for the TOEFL Writing section.

Task 2 (Writing for an Academic Discussion Task)

Tip #6: be sure to add to the discussion.

On July 26, 2023, ETS introduced a new TOEFL Writing question called Writing for an Academic Discussion. It replaced the Independent Writing task.

For writing task #2, you have ten minutes to read the discussion and then write a response of 100 words or more.

In the example above, the professor poses a question about whether or not globalization has a positive or negative effect on society. Bryan believes globalization is positive because it brings people and cultures closer together, while Alex thinks globalization leads to the exploitation of developing countries.

When it is time to write, be sure to ADD to the discussion. Do not just repeat the same points made by the other students.

Look at the sample response below. The points highlighted are additional ideas that contribute to the discussion.

In my opinion, globalization is a positive force in the world today. My personal belief is that when nations interact together, it leads to less suffering. For example, people who suffer from natural catastrophes can import goods and services to help mitigate their losses and recover quickly. Citizens of nations who may be going through war or famine can flee to neighboring countries for shelter. I understand Alex’s concern over cultural homogenization, but I believe she misses another critical point. Much of the food found in grocery stores around the world is imported. Our very diet is due to the international trade partnerships and alliances forged over the last half of the 20th century. International trade and travel are not possible in a world without globalization, which is why I believe it is crucial to maintain our current global policies for a safer world with a higher standard of living.

On test day, it is fine to agree or acknowledge the points made in the discussion; just be sure that the majority of your response to the Writing for an Academic Discussion question further develops the online conversation.

Tip #7: Stick to a few simple verb tenses

Simple present
Simple past
Present perfect

But hold on a second.

Your grammar in the TOEFL Writing section can’t be too simple, and there is one more tip to keep in mind.

Tip #8: Try to include multiple sentences with more than one clause

According to Michael Goodine at Test Resources , the TOEFL Writing e-rater likes writing samples that include sentences with subordinating and/or coordinating conjunctions.

A subordinating conjunction is a word or phrase that links a dependent clause to an independent clause, and a coordinating conjunction joins two elements of equal importance.

Check out the table below for a handy list of both.

It is not required to include these conjunctions in your response, but it will help you craft sentences with two or more clauses, which will have a positive impact on your score.

I have highlighted the sentences from the globalization example response that include multiple clauses.

Tip #9: Take the time to edit!

Spelling errors
Capitalization and spacing mistakes
Problematic introduction sentence
Personal areas of weakness (article usage, subject-verb agreement, etc.)
Proper verb tense

Tip #10: Get feedback

While preparing for the TOEFL writing section, it is crucial for you to get your hands on some practice questions.

And to get valuable feedback from a qualified TOEFL instructor who knows exactly what you need to write to earn a high score in the writing section. Relying on yourself or a teacher you know will certainly help, but you will not be able to reach your full potential without advice from an experienced instructor.

Therefore, the last tip while preparing for the TOEFL is to get help from a trained professional at TST Prep.

If you haven’t already, be sure to download TST Prep’s Complete Test #13 where you can see these sample essays and more.

Was there anything we missed?

If you have more TOEFL Writing tips, please don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments section below.

And, as always, we are here to help if you have any questions or concerns, [email protected]

71 Comments

Hi Josh, thank you for your wonderful support. I want to ask you that for int task, while the reading passage is on history topic, should I stick to past tense or not? Like “the passage elaborates that the Greek sculpture was…”. Please provide another academic test opportunity for free like the previous one.

Hi Shreya, Thank you very much for your question. In general, you should use the tense the lecturer uses, so if the topic is about the ancient Romans, you should be writing in the past, etc.

Thanks for this invaluable article🙏🏻.

Excellent samples

Hi Josh. Thank you a lot. This post was very useful for me.

Hi Josh, The sample for Task 1 provided on the ETS website is a bit different from the one you wrote. It solely focuses on the lecture while only saying, “That refutes that point from reading.” Could you have a look and recommend me some tips?

Hi, thanks for your question. To add length to your essay, we suggest including a bit more from the reading section. It can also help you in making sure each point from the listening matches a point referenced in the reading.

Hi Josh, First, thanks a million for this intelligent and helpful content; you are a great tutor. I found that the time management section has a small mistake with summing the minutes suggested for each step. 2 minutes outline + 3 minutes introduction + 11 minutes body + 2 minutes conclusion + 3 minutes editing = 21 minutes!

Hi Inman, thanks for pointing that out. We will have a look. I would maybe say 2 minutes for an introduction would be better. 🙂

Great! Thanks again.

Mohammad tareq Naeimi

Hey Josh Thanks a lot for your time and effort. You have got a heart of gold. Lots of love from Afghanistan♥️🇦🇫

Point 7 isn’t true (but perhaps you needed just one more to make 10 tips instead of 9?) I took both sides all the time when I took the TOEFL, and got a 119 (and the reason I missed one point was the speaking, where I forgot to mention two specific examples). Cheers!

Hi Ruth and thank you for taking the time to leave a comment. Congrats on your score, that’s incredible. In regards to your opinion on tip #7 ” HAVE A CLEAR OPINION AND STICK TO IT”, it is not put there arbitrarily to inflate the number of tips. We have found that students who fail to have a concrete opinion tend to have difficulty developing the topic and writing with clarity. This is not always the case and you can write a perfect essay by arguing both sides of the argument, generally speaking, however, it is easier to write a clear and well-developed essay when taking one clear side of an issue.

Hello Josh. What do “int” and “ind” mean? You used these in the TOEFL Writing Transitional Phrases table without explaining them. Thanks.

Hi Rob, and my apologies. I should clarify that. The “int” stands for “integrated writing (task 1),” and the “ind” stands for independent writing (task #2).

Hello, I’m preparing for TOEFL, and I found a weird subject for the independent subject. “The average global life expectancy went from 29 years old in 1800 to 71 years old in 2015. According to you, what is the main cause for such a change?”. Do you know if it is possible to have a question like this? Thank you for your help.

Hi there and thank you for your question. This does indeed sound like a reasonable topic since anyone could have an opinion on it. It is a bit strange but definitely possible. (I’ve seen weirder). This would also be difficult because you would have to use past unreal unconditional forms and sentences like “It could have been” “might have been because”, etc. Hope that helps!

Rogerio Souza

Hello Josh! How are you? Please where can I find the TOEFL Writing 24+ Guide to download?

Here is the link. Hope that helps you find what you are looking for. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j-fGt9rvjklnU4v-ENUA2cE6d1fp2mt1/view?usp=sharing

Nikitha Crasta

Hi Josh, I’m taking my test in a few minutes. Thank you so much for the free material on the website. It has definitely helped me make my own template!

Thanks for leaving a comment Nikitha. How did the test go? I’m always interested to hear if anything was surprising/interesting/etc.

The test was alright! I haven’t received my scores yet, except for Reading (26) and Listening (29). The questions asked were congruent to the examination pattern. I couldn’t really relate to the personal opinion question asked in the speaking section. I found the reading section quite tough compared to everything else. In the end, it wasn’t so bad considering I started prep 24 hours before the exam. If I had put in the effort, I would’ve been able to do well.

Hi Josh. I’m preparing to write the TOEFL exam as a deaf test taker. I have practiced a lot, but the problem is the reading section. I can’t figure out how I answer to the reading section questions.

Have you considered seeing if perhaps you can be allowed extra time? I know in certain situations it is possible, but I’m not sure it would pertain to the Reading section. It might be worth you checking with ETS. Outside of that, have you thought about maybe taking the group reading course? I think it might really help you.

Thanks a lot for sharing the tips and the analysis, I really appreciate it!

Hello Josh, How can I have this post in PDF format? Is it possible to send me the PDF file of this post ??

Hi Erfan and thank you for asking. Unfortunately, we do not have this post in PDF format but we have our TOEFL Writing Guide which includes tips like this, along with a lot of other useful information. I think you will find this document even more helpful. Here is the link – https://drive.google.com/file/d/12JWgyMLAAUM2z4GDDpTDbMXCXelkYS0h/view?usp=sharing

TOEFL Vocabulary: Words from Official TOEFL iBT Tests

One of the best sources of TOEFL practice tests is the book Official TOEFL iBT Tests , by ETS, the company that makes the TOEFL. Although it’s not perfect—a book can never be exactly like the actual IBT, which is internet-based—it has the most practice of the highest quality questions for a low price.

In this post, I’m going to take words from the first reading passage in that book. You know these words are TOEFL-level vocabulary because they were on an official test. The specific text I’m taking these questions from is about the numbers of two types of deer in a specific area of the U.S.; animal populations and behavior are a common TOEFL topic. But in my sample sentences below, I’ll give sentences from other topics, unrelated to deer populations, so you can see how these words might work in other texts, lectures, or conversations. You can get 600 more words like the four below, along with definitions and example sentences, from our free TOEFL flashcards app.

(to be) Prevalent

Basically, “prevalent” just means “common.” We use it to describe things that we see in many places. You might, for example, say that bicycles are prevalent in many major cities. When you walk down the street, you will probably see a bicycle, because there are so many of them in that area.

We usually use “prevalent” to describe things that are common or numerous in a specific place and time—something that could change or has changed.

TOEFL example: European Christmas markets, prevalent today across a number of countries, developed from the less festive tradition of seasonal markets, which occurred regularly at specific times of the year.

(to) Fluctuate Consider a measurement of something that can change. The temperature, for example, or your weight. It’s possible that they might increase or decrease. But if they fluctuate, they do both: they decrease, then increase, then decrease, then increase again. Or maybe they increase first—it doesn’t matter. The point is that something which fluctuates changes in size, number, or measurement many times. It goes up and down, again and again. TOEFL example: Consumer demand for any particular product will inevitably fluctuate ; the job of the seller is to understand the patterns behind those fluctuations and improve their business accordingly. (to) Bode This is an interesting word because it almost always comes paired with either the word “well” or the word “ill.” Clearly, “bode well” is good, and “bode ill” is bad. To “bode poorly” is also possible. But the word is most commonly used with “well.” “To bode” refers to how a fact of the present can give a hint about the future. Nobody knows the future, of course, but sometimes, we can look at the situation now and learn some important information. Then, based on that information, we can predict what might happen in the future. Let’s imagine I’ve just started taking an art class. I want to learn how to paint well. But during my first class, I had a lot of trouble mixing colors, and I couldn’t create any of the colors I wanted. Before I even started painting, I had trouble. That first experience didn’t bode well. I will probably have more trouble in the future. TOEFL example: Although airships were relatively common in the early 1900s, a series of high-profile crashes boded poorly for their continued success. (to) Yield This word has more than one definition, and they’re not closely related. The first definition is to let somebody else take control or go first. You might see the word “yield” on a road sign, for example, similar to a stop sign. However, if the sign says “yield” it only means that you should let cars on the other road go first—you only have to stop if somebody is coming. Similarly, if my girlfriend wants to go out to eat at a restaurant, and I want to eat at home, but I eventually agree to go out, then I am yielding to her desires. I allow her plans to be more important. But the second definition is very different: it means “produce,” in a way. If you are a farmer, then your farm yields food every year. Or if you are looking for gold on the street, your search probably won’t yield anything. TOEFL example: I spent hours at the library looking for sources to write my paper on, but it yielded absolutely nothing. Author

Lucas is the teacher behind Magoosh TOEFL. He’s been teaching TOEFL preparation and more general English since 2009, and the SAT since 2008. Between his time at Bard College and teaching abroad, he has studied Japanese, Czech, and Korean. None of them come in handy, nowadays.

View all posts

More from Magoosh

Official TOEFL iBT Tests Volume 2, 3rd Edition

TOEFL sample essays: Tips and techniques for a high score

The TOEFL exam is a standardised test that measures a non-native English speaker's ability to use and understand English at the university level. One of the components of the TOEFL exam is the writing section, which requires test-takers to write an essay in response to a prompt.

To score well on the writing section, it is essential to understand the requirements of the exam and the characteristics of a high-scoring essay.

In this article, we will explore tips and techniques for writing TOEFL sample essays that will help test-takers achieve a high score.

Toefl writing section, integrated writing task, independent essay sample, 1. understand the task requirements, 2. plan your essay, 3. use effective paragraph structure, 4. use specific examples, 5. use varied sentence structure, 6. use academic vocabulary, 7. use correct grammar and punctuation.

TOEFL essay #1
TOEFL essay #2
TOEFL essay #3

Frequently asked questions

The TOEFL writing section is a crucial component of the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), which measures the English language proficiency of non-native speakers of English who wish to study or work in English-speaking countries. The writing section evaluates a test-taker's ability to write effectively and clearly in academic English.

The TOEFL writing section comprises two tasks: the Independent Writing Task and the Integrated Writing Task. Both tasks assess different aspects of the test-taker's writing abilities, including their ability to express ideas clearly, organise thoughts, use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and demonstrate critical thinking and analytical skills.

Independent Writing Task

The Independent Writing Task assesses your ability to write in English on a given topic. The task requires you to express your thoughts, ideas, and opinions coherently and effectively in written form. The task aims to evaluate your ability to organise your thoughts, use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and develop your ideas with sufficient details and examples.

The Independent Writing Task is a timed exercise, and you will be given 30 minutes to complete it. You will be presented with a prompt or a question, which you will be required to address in your response. The prompt may ask you to express your opinion on a particular issue or to describe a situation, problem or challenge and propose a solution. It is important to read the prompt carefully and understand what it requires you to do before starting to write.

Tips for writing high-scoring TOEFL essay

Writing a high-scoring TOEFL essay requires effective preparation, practice, and the use of a clear writing structure. Here are some tips to help you write a high-scoring TOEFL essay:

The first step in writing a high-scoring TOEFL essay is to understand the task requirements. Make sure you read the prompt carefully and understand the topic you are being asked to write about. Additionally, make sure you understand the type of essay you need to write. The TOEFL independent writing task requires you to write an essay expressing your opinion or providing your perspective on a given topic.

Once you understand the prompt and the requirements of the task, take a few minutes to plan your essay. Jot down some notes, create an outline, or even brainstorm on paper to organise your thoughts. Make sure you have a clear idea of the main points you want to make and the evidence you will use to support them. Organising your thoughts and creating an outline will help you stay on track and make your essay more coherent.

Paragraphs are the building blocks of your essay. Each paragraph should have a clear topic sentence that relates to the main idea of the essay. Use supporting evidence and examples to back up your main point in each paragraph. Additionally, make sure each paragraph flows smoothly into the next. Using transition words and phrases can help link ideas and make your essay more cohesive.

One of the keys to writing a high-scoring TOEFL essay is to use specific examples to support your ideas. Use real-life examples, statistics, and facts to back up your argument. This will demonstrate your knowledge of the topic and show that you can think critically. Additionally, using specific examples will make your essay more interesting to read and help you stand out from other test-takers.

Varying your sentence structure can make your essay more interesting and engaging to read. Use short and long sentences, questions, and statements to add variety to your writing. This will help you avoid repetition and make your writing more engaging. However, make sure your sentences are grammatically correct and make sense in the context of your essay.

Using academic vocabulary can make your essay sound more professional and knowledgeable. Use vocabulary that is appropriate for the academic level of the test. Avoid slang, colloquialisms, and overly complex language. Additionally, make sure you use words correctly and avoid using words that you do not fully understand.

Using correct grammar and punctuation is essential to getting a high score on the TOEFL writing section. Make sure you use correct verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, and sentence structure. Use appropriate punctuation to ensure your writing is clear and easy to read. If you are unsure about a grammar or punctuation rule, look it up or ask a tutor for clarification.

TOEFL writing samples

TOEFL writing samples provide valuable insights into the structure and content expected in the writing section of the exam. These samples showcase both the integrated and independent writing tasks, allowing test-takers to familiarise themselves with the types of prompts and the expected responses.

Below we have provided three TOEFL writing samples with answers. By analysing and studying these TOEFL sample essays, students can understand the effective use of transitions, supporting evidence, and coherent arguments.

TOEFL essay sample #1

The importance of learning a second language

Learning a second language has become increasingly important in today's globalised world. It offers numerous benefits such as improved cognitive abilities, enhanced cultural understanding, and better job prospects. In this essay, we will explore the advantages of learning a second language and how it can positively impact individuals and society.

Learning a second language has been shown to improve cognitive abilities. It requires mental effort and helps develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and multitasking skills. Research has shown that bilingual individuals exhibit higher levels of creativity and have improved memory and attention spans.

Furthermore, learning a second language enhances cultural understanding. Language is deeply intertwined with culture, and by learning a second language, individuals gain insights into different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. This fosters empathy, tolerance, and a broader worldview, enabling individuals to engage and connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

In addition, knowing a second language opens up better job prospects. In today's global job market, multilingualism is highly valued. It allows individuals to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, and partners from different countries. Employers often seek candidates with language skills, as it demonstrate adaptability and a willingness to engage in cross-cultural interactions. Thus, learning a second language offers advantages in terms of career opportunities and professional growth.

TOEFL essay sample #2

The impact of technology on education

Technology has revolutionised the field of education, transforming the way students learn and teachers teach. In this essay, we will explore the positive impact of technology on education, including increased access to resources, improved engagement, and enhanced learning outcomes.

One significant impact of technology in education is the increased access to resources. Online platforms, digital libraries, and educational apps provide students with vast amounts of educational materials, regardless of their geographical location. Students can access textbooks, research materials, and interactive learning tools, empowering them to explore and learn at their own pace.

Moreover, technology has improved student engagement in the learning process. Multimedia elements such as videos, simulations, and gamification techniques capture students' attention and promote active participation. This not only enhances their understanding of the subject matter but also fosters creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Additionally, technology facilitates personalised learning experiences. Adaptive learning platforms analyze student performance and provide personalised feedback, allowing for targeted instruction and remediation. Online collaboration tools enable students to work together, fostering teamwork and communication skills. These personalised and collaborative learning experiences contribute to enhanced learning outcomes and student success.

TOEFL essay sample #3

The benefits of exercise for physical and mental health

Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good physical and mental health. It offers numerous benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, increased strength and flexibility, stress reduction, and enhanced mood. In this essay, we will explore the importance of exercise for overall well-being.

Engaging in regular exercise improves physical health. It helps prevent chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Exercise strengthens the cardiovascular system, boosts metabolism, and enhances overall physical fitness. Activities like running, swimming, or weightlifting promote muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility.

Exercise also plays a vital role in stress reduction and mental well-being. Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. These endorphins promote feelings of happiness and well-being, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Regular exercise can also improve sleep quality, increase energy levels, and enhance cognitive function.

Furthermore, exercise provides an opportunity for individuals to unwind, clear their minds, and focus on their physical well-being. It can serve as a form of self-care, allowing individuals to take time for themselves and prioritize their health. Incorporating exercise into one's routine can have a positive impact on their overall mental and emotional state.

In conclusion, regular exercise offers a multitude of benefits for both physical and mental health. It improves cardiovascular health, increases strength and flexibility, reduces stress, and enhances mood. By incorporating exercise into our daily lives, we can experience improved well-being and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

It is important to understand the requirements of the exam and the characteristics of a high-scoring essay to achieve a high score on the TOEFL writing section. By organizing your thoughts, using specific examples, using clear and concise language, focusing on coherence and cohesion, and proofreading and editing carefully, you can improve your essay writing skills and increase your chances of success on the exam.

What is the format of the TOEFL essay?

The TOEFL essay is a 30-minute written task where you are asked to express and support your opinion on a specific topic. The essay is typically four to five paragraphs long and should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Where can I find sample TOEFL essays to practice with?

You can find sample TOEFL essays in TOEFL preparation books or online. The official TOEFL website also provides sample essays and scoring guides.

How can I prepare for the TOEFL writing section?

To prepare for the TOEFL writing section, you should practice writing essays using sample prompts, develop your grammar and vocabulary skills, and learn how to organize and develop your ideas effectively. You may also want to work.

How to write a TOEFL essay?

To write a TOEFL essay, it is important to understand the prompt, brainstorm ideas, create an outline, and then write a well-structured essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Practice organising your thoughts and expressing them clearly within the time limit provided.

Is 27 a good writing score in TOEFL?

Yes, a score of 27 is considered a good writing score in TOEFL. It demonstrates a high level of proficiency in writing and indicates strong language skills, coherence, and clarity in expressing ideas.

What is the TOEFL essay format?

The TOEFL essay format consists of an introduction, two or three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction presents the main idea or argument, the body paragraphs provide supporting evidence or examples, and the conclusion summarises the main points and restates the thesis statement.

Is 24 a good TOEFL writing score?

A score of 24 in TOEFL writing is considered a good score. It reflects a strong command of English writing skills, including the ability to organise ideas coherently, use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and develop well-structured paragraphs.

Is TOEFL writing difficult?

The difficulty level of TOEFL writing can vary from person to person. It requires strong language skills, critical thinking, and the ability to express ideas clearly within a time constraint.

Study Abroad Expert

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this site solely belong to the individual authors and do not necessarily represent t ...Read More

Best books for TOEFL exam preparation

10 tips to help prepare for the TOEFL exam

TOEFL vs IELTS: Which is best for applying to top universities?

What you need to know about TOEFL iBT: A beginner's guide

TOEFL study material: The best resources to help you succeed

TOEFL vocabulary list: Essential words for success

Test Resources

TOEFL® Resources by Michael Goodine

How long should a toefl essay be.

Students often ask how long the TOEFL essays should be. My opinion is that the academic discussion answer should be between 110 and 130 words, and the integrated essay should be between 280 and 300 words.

Let me explain where these numbers come from, and my general ideas about TOEFL essay length.

For the academic discussion question, I feel that 110 to 130 words is long enough to use a wide range of words and various grammatical structures. Trying to fit various words and grammatical structures into a very short answer is possible… but it can be very difficult.

Regarding the integrated essay, I feel that 280 to 300 words is enough to write one or two sentences about the reading , and two sentences about the lecture in each body paragraph. To get a really good score in this task you need to include quite a few details from the lecture. Short essays are usually missing important lecture details. This length will also allow you to follow the templates contained in my guide to the task.

Remember: there is no penalty for writing too much.

Sign up for express essay evaluation today!

Submit your practice essays for evaluation by the author of this website. Get feedback on grammar, structure, vocabulary and more. Learn how to score better on the TOEFL. Feedback in 48 hours.

IMAGES

200 Most Important TOEFL Words
Toefl Essay Writing Tips
270 TOEFL Words You Need to Know
8 TOEFL essay topics to prepare for the TOEFL exam
A TOEFL or IELTS Essay Example and Planning Tips
Write to the Top

VIDEO

400 Essential Words IELTS TOEFL SAT PTE English Vocabulary FULL LIST
Synonyms for the 96 most commonly used words in TOEFL ibt TEST (Part 3/4)
Toefl
TOEFL Writing Practice Test #1 + SAMPLE RESPONSES! Updated for 2024
TOEFL Words Study -DAY 04 (264w cover about 93% of what you need)
TOEFL Words Group 7: Level 2

COMMENTS

2 Perfect-Scoring TOEFL Writing Samples, Analyzed
Below is an official TOEFL Integrated Writing sample question and as well as an essay response that received a score of 5. It includes a written passage, the transcript of a conversation (which would be an audio recording on the actual TOEFL, and the essay prompt. After the prompt is an example of a top-scoring essay.
TOEFL® Writing Practice Questions (2024 Update), Test Resources
The first TOEFL writing question is the Integrated Writing Task. You will first read an article, then listen to a lecture, and finally write an essay using details from both. Your essay should be about 280 words. You will have 20 minutes to write. Below are some practice questions you can use to get ready for the test.
PDF TOEFL iBT® Writing Practice Questions
Directions: Give yourself 20 minutes to plan and write your response. Your response is judged on the quality of the writing and on how well it presents the points in the lecture and their relationship to the reading passage. Typically, an effective response will be 150 to 225 words.
TOEFL Writing Practice Tests: 100 Prompts + Model Answers
I created 100 writing practice tests + model answers. These tasks give you practice writing for an online discussion. In addition, after each practice test, I include a model response of how you could answer. If you want me to score your practice tests, join my TOEFL Speaking and Writing Feedback Service.
How to Ace the TOEFL Writing Section: 7 Expert Tips
Aim for your essay to be at least 300 words, but if it's only, say, 320 words, it's still possible for it to get a top score if you've written it well. TOEFL Writing Study Strategies. You should absolutely study the TOEFL Writing section and do practice essays before exam day. Below are some tips to help you get the most out of your studying.
TOEFL iBT Test Writing Section
The TOEFL iBT test Writing section measures your ability to write in English in an academic setting, and to present your ideas in a clear, well-organized way. There are two writing tasks. Integrated writing task (20 minutes) — read a short passage and listen to a short lecture, then write in response to what you read and listened to.
Master the TOEFL Independent Essay (2023)
TOEFL Independent Writing Master Guide (2023 Update) Here's how the TOEFL Independent writing question works: It is the second writing question on the TOEFL Test. You will be asked a question about your personal opinion and be given 30 minutes to write about it. Questions can be about any topics, but they are most often about education, work ...
PDF TOEFL iBT® Writing Practice Questions
Development of your essay is judged by the amount and kinds of support (reasons, examples, details) that you present, and a well-developed essay will contain clearly appropriate reasons, examples, and details—ones that do a good job supporting or illustrating the points you are making. Development is not simply the number of words you write.
Sample Essays for the Writing Section of the TOEFL® Test
Here's an expert TOEFL teacher's sample essay to this particular TOEFL Writing topic. The article introduces the topic of corn-based ethanol. More specifically, the writer discusses the advantages of switching from fossil fuels to this alternative energy source. The lecturer in the listening passage disagrees.
How to Write a Fantastic TOEFL Integrated Essay (2023)
It is the first writing task on the TOEFL test. First, you will have three minutes to read an article (four paragraphs, 250 to 300 words) about an academic topic. Next, you will listen to a lecture (about 2 minutes) about the same topic. Finally, you will have 20 minutes to write an essay about the relationship between the two sources.
Mastering TOEFL Writing: A Comprehensive Guide for Success
Welcome to the "TOEFL Writing Guide," your ultimate resource for mastering the Writing section of the TOEFL iBT test! Whether you're a beginner or aiming to refine your skills, this comprehensive guide offers essential strategies, tips, and high-scoring essay samples. Let's embark on this writing adventure together and achieve ...
The Best TOEFL Writing Practice: 300+ Topics to Use to Study
TOEFL iBT Quick Prep. The Quick Prep contains four different volumes, each of which contains one or two Writing prompts. The first volume is the best for TOEFL iBT Writing practice, since it contains two tasks (the others each only contain one) and also has an in-depth explanation of what your essays should include.
Ultimate TOEFL Vocabulary List: The 327 Best Words to Know
The 327 TOEFL Words You Need to Know. Below are the 327 best TOEFL vocabulary words, in alphabetical order. Word. Definition. Sample Sentence. Abundant. Present in large quantities. Living close to a lake means we have an abundant supply of water. Accumulate.
The Best TOEFL Writing Templates for Any Prompt
The score you receive for this task will be on a scale of 0-5.According to the official rubric, a level-5 essay (i.e., a perfect essay) selects the most crucial information from the lecture and presents it in a coherent, accurate, and well-organized manner.A level-3 essay is satisfactory but overall vague, with fewer key points and several grammatical errors.
TOEFL Vocabulary Guide and Rules
TOEFL Vocabulary Rule One: Do Not Repeat Words. You should not repeat words too many times. I think you may reduce your score if you repeat a word more than two or three times in the same essay. If you are writing an essay about children, don't repeat the word "children" ten times. Use synonyms like "young people" or "youths" or ...
Ten Awesome Tips for the Writing Section of the TOEFL® Test
One of the grading criteria on the TOEFL is vocabulary, and you will earn zero points if you simply quote the material. Tip #4 - Use lots of transitional words and phrases. They will help you develop your essay and connect your ideas. Tip #5 - Manage your time wisely. You only have 20 minutes to construct an essay of at least 250 words.
TOEFL Vocabulary: Words from Official TOEFL iBT Tests
TOEFL Writing Task 1 (Integrated) In TOEFL Writing Task 1, you'll read a passage, listen to a lecture, and write an essay in response. These articles provide practice tasks, advice, and information on this part of TOEFL Writing. ... You know these words are TOEFL-level vocabulary because they were on an official test.
13 TOEFL Writing Topics to Help You Practice for the Exam
For the Independent Writing task, you'll receive a question on a particular topic or issue. You'll need to write a response to that topic that explains your opinion, and you'll also need to give reasons and examples that support your opinion. Writing Time: 30 minutes. Suggested Essay Length: At least 300 words.
TOEFL sample essays: Tips and techniques for a high score
The TOEFL exam is a standardised test that measures a non-native English speaker's ability to use and understand English at the university level. One of the components of the TOEFL exam is the writing section, which requires test-takers to write an essay in response to a prompt. To score well on the writing section, it is essential to understand the requirements of the exam and the ...
Complete TOEFL Essay Templates (2024 Update)
Your TOEFL integrated essay should be about 280 to 300 words. To see this template in use, check out my collection of sample essays. Writing for Academic Discussion (Writing Question Two) Here's a really straightforward template that is easy to use. While some people might think [opposite of my opinion], I really believe that [my opinion]
Master the TOEFL Writing Section in 2024
The writing section is the final part of the TOEFL® test. You'll have about 30 minutes to answer two writing questions. They are known as the TOEFL Integrated essay, and the TOEFL Writing for an Academic Discussion Task. You'll be graded based on your content, organization, grammar and language use. Below are links to my best stuff, or ...
PDF Complete Word List: 327 TOEFL Words You Must Know
The 327 TOEFL Words You Must Know - Complete Word List degrade v. to lower in quality demonstrate v. to show deny v. to state that something isn't true deplete v. to significantly decrease deposit v. to deliver and leave an item desirable adj. worth having or wanting despise v. to hate detect v. to locate something
How Long Should a TOEFL Essay Be?
Students often ask how long the TOEFL essays should be. My opinion is that the academic discussion answer should be between 110 and 130 words, and the integrated essay should be between 280 and 300 words.. Let me explain where these numbers come from, and my general ideas about TOEFL essay length. For the academic discussion question, I feel that 110 to 130 words is long enough to use a wide ...