How to Prepare for TOEFL: A guide

 

TOEFL is one of the most important exams for all study abroad aspirants. Given its importance, it is normal to feel that it is too difficult. But it is not as difficult as one thinks. It is all about preparing the right way and familiarising yourself with the process, which will help you become proficient with the concepts and score high.

 

10 tips on how to prepare for the TOEFL

1.  Start early: Starting your preparation early is essential if you want to do well on the TOEFL exam. Depending on your English proficiency, allowing yourself ample time—ideally six to eight weeks—allows for thorough preparation. The chances of receiving a high score on the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) can be greatly increased by starting your preparation early. Starting early and adhering to these organised preparation guidelines will help you build your confidence and skills, which will help you perform well.

 

2.  Know the format: Understanding the TOEFL exam’s format is crucial. The exam was divided into four sections, namely reading, listening, speaking, and writing. All four sections have a specific timeline. Knowing the format thoroughly helps in creating a study plan accordingly. It is advised to familiarise yourself with the format, the types of questions asked, and the time allotted for each section.

 

3.  Take practice tests. Practice tests that are highly effective in TOEFL preparation. It will help with the exam by identifying potential strengths and weaknesses and tracking progress accordingly. Also, there are many practicum tests available. This again gives a good practice session for the entire test session and gives a chance to hone the technique and skills.

 

4.  Improve vocabulary: Vocabulary is essential if appearing for TOEFL. It is essential to learn new words and use them in day-to-day conversations. Reading English materials like newspapers and books aids in vocabulary growth. It is preferable to engage with more English content, such as podcasts, news articles, and movies, to enhance vocabulary and comprehensive skills. Incorporate new words into your vocabulary daily through daily reading, listening, speaking, and writing challenges. Also, the vocabulary journal has to be maintained regularly. This would help in better engagement with the language. With more practice, it would enhance fluency, pronunciation, and the ability to express words clearly. By incorporating strategies into the TOEFL preparation, one can effectively enhance the overall performance.

 

5.  Focus on grammar: grammar is one of the most essential parts for the preparation of TOEFL exam. English grammar rules, including verb tenses and prepositions, are taught through exercises and online resources. Grammar rules such as verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, articles, prepositions, and sentence structure are the key points to remember. In order to improvise on the grammar part, full-length TOEFL practice tests would prove to be easy to assess the grammar skills under timed conditions. After completing the test, analyse the mistakes made and work on improvement. It is advised to put writing and speaking skills to test. Focus more on constructing error-free sentences and expressing ideas clearly and effectively.

 

6.  Practice listening and speaking: The sections of TOEFL require understanding and communicating in English. It is preferred that one listen to podcasts, watch movies, and speak with native speakers. Speaking a language is considered one of the hardest parts for most of us.  Every person tends to make mistakes when speaking. With more confidence, try and get speaking practice in mind. Try speaking to a person or practice speaking in front of the mirror. This would boost confidence within oneself.

 

7.  Time yourself: Effective time management is crucial. Develop strategies to complete each exam section within the time limit. Also, while practicing, allocate time for each section. Keep a record of your practice sessions and monitor the improvement over time. Note any patterns or trends in your performance that would require further attention. After completing a practice test or section, review the performance of your test. Identify the areas where the performance is weaker and adjust the plan for studying accordingly. It is preferred to find a quiet environment, free from distractions, to work closely on the tests. Try using a stopwatch or a timer app to time yourself during practice test sessions. This will help in staying disciplined and managing time effectively during eam hours.

 

Countries adhering to TOEFL

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is widely accepted by universities and institutions around the globe as a test to check the English-speaking proficiency of non-native speakers. Here are the key countries accepting TOEFL:

·      USA

·      Canada

·      UK

·      Germany

·      France

·      Netherlands

·      Italy

·      Australia

·      New Zealand

·      Singapore

Given the acceptance of TOEFL by many countries, students and professionals who want to study abroad or work abroad can benefit from the test. It is advised to check the minimum score required by each university.

For further assistance or queries students can contact us, Edwise International and avail our wide range of services for students on destinations like Study in UK, Study in USA, Study in Canada, Study in Australia, Study in New-Zealand, Study in Singapore, Study in Ireland and many other countries.