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How to Prepare for TOEFL in a Week: A Step-by-Step Plan

How to Prepare for TOEFL in a Week: A Step-by-Step Plan

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jun 19, 2024 09:14 AM IST | #TOEFL

The TOEFL exam is one of the most prestigious exams to showcase your English language skills as it is not just beneficial for study abroad or entering a dream university but also an effective show in your immigration process and even a point to prove your language skills to your next employer. So, if you just have the last seven days and you have not started the preparation as yet, this article will help you achieve the target of scoring high scores so check out the strategies on How to prepare for TOEFL in a week.

Although how to prepare for TOEFL in 1 week seems to be haunting to many students, effective strategies, optimistic mindset, right focus and consistency is the way to achieve high scores.

How to Prepare for TOEFL in a Week- Step-by-Step Plan

TOEFL preparation in a week may sound overwhelming for some candidates. But it is absolutely possible if the candidate is willing to put in all the efforts to taste TOEFL success. This article discuss in depth about how to prepare for TOEFL examination at home in a week by discussing the TOEFL tips and strategies related with it.

Let us understand day by day TOEFL preparation in a week study plan.

Day 1- TOEFL Preparation – Exam Format and Practice Test

At this initial stage, you must know the exact TOEFL exam format and also come out of the fear that what exactly you will be asked in the exam, it is highly recommended that the candidate should attempt TOEFL mock test. By attempting the mock test or just a TOEFL practice test online the student will be able to realize the different types of questions asked in all the modules and also be in a position to make his/her strategies to easily reach out to the answer and also be able to feel the need of being spontaneous in speaking and writing on any given topic logically and reasonably. Further, the candidate will also be able to analyze the need of time management in answering all the modules of the TOEFL exam.

Day 2- TOEFL Preparation- Analyze the weakness – TOEFL Speaking practice

As you have attempted the TOEFL practice test online or the TOEFL mock test offline, you have realized the weak areas you need to work on and also the target score that you need to achieve. The difference between the desired target score and the score achieved in the TOEFL mock test helps you in crafting a perfect 6-day timeline from now.

Starting with the speaking module will be a perfect idea, also if you have a speaking partner, it's nothing more than a blessing. However, if you do not have one, be courageous enough to self-talk in front of the mirror, record the same and analyze your errors. This activity is perfect to gain confidence, so on this day prepare a list of at least 10 topics that are academic in nature and prepare on minimum 2 topics daily. You may listen to authenticated documentaries or read texts published by native English users to enhance your knowledge on the topics.

Day 3- TOEFL Preparation – Reading module along with other activities

As on Day 2, you have made the list of academic topics, spare a minimum of 1 hour for your speaking time which may also include preparing on the topic by either listening or reading about it. Additionally, on the third day, start with a TOEFL reading practice test keeping in mind the weak areas you had realized on Day 1. Time yourself and attempt the TOEFL reading practice test in the morning, check your errors and re-work on your strategies.

to get a glimpse of all sorts of strategies that can help you score better. Now, in the evening, give a final TOEFL reading mock test so that you can check the new learnt strategies and see the improvement in your score. This will surely enhance your confidence.

Day 4- TOEFL Preparation- Writing module along with other activities

Now, that you have almost worked on 4 academic topics, practiced the speaking and reading module. You should continue to enhance knowledge with the next two topics.

Follow the same strategy of Day 3, but this time attempt the TOEFL writing practice test online, this will help you realize the improvement in score from day 1. For the TOEFL writing test, you will realize that working on academic topics for speaking has also helped you in writing because the topics for all modules are academic and this way the test is kind of interconnected. We would highly recommend that on this day you should at least give two attempts of TOEFL writing mock test or practice test and get yourself evaluated online by being a part of TOEFL community groups on social media.

Day 5- TOEFL Preparation – Listening module score check

By this day, you are ready with almost six to seven academic topics and by the end of the day it would be around 8 topics. Doing mirror practice regularly will help you realize the change in your language skills and the positivity will make you consistent in practice and stay motivated for the TOEFL exam.

Follow the same strategy for the TOEFL listening module and give 2 attempts, be careful in analyzing your errors and measuring your improvement at each step. If you feel in the first attempt that you have achieved your desired score or a little more than that, you may practice reading or writing modules in the evening.

By the end of Day 5, you should have attempted all the modules at least twice and enhanced your knowledge on various academic topics like global warming, problems of developing nations, issues in the current education system and so on.

Day 6- TOEFL Preparation- Attempt Mock test

Now that we are just left with 2 days, its time to just be completely focused and mindful about the exam. The candidate should strictly follow the time and attempt one complete TOEFL mock test. Check the improvement in scores overall in all the modules, analyze the weak areas and the errors again and attempt the practice test of the module in which you have probably scored less.

Day 7- TOEFL Preparation – Attempt Final Mock test

So this is the final day of practice, stay calm and mindful, relax and refresh your mind. Just attempt one last TOEFL mock test and recheck all the practice tests to brush up all the strategies for attempting the modules of the TOEFL exam.

We are sure this quick way of preparation will help you excel and score high in the TOEFL exam. You are requested to check out the other TOEFL tips and strategies given by career 360 in their other blogs.

TOEFL Preparation in a week overview

Now let us have an overview of TOEFL preparation in a week.

Day

Activities and Focus

Day 1

- Understand TOEFL exam format

- Attempt TOEFL practice test

- Analyze question types- Develop time management strategies

Day 2

- Identify weaknesses from mock test

- Focus on TOEFL Speaking practice-

Practice speaking topics

- Use mirror practice or self-recording

Day 3

- Continue with academic topics

- TOEFL Reading practice test (morning)

- Review and analyze errors

- Evening TOEFL Reading mock test

Day 4

- Expand knowledge on academic topics

- TOEFL Writing practice test

- Reflect academic topic practice in writing responses

Day 5

- Consolidate academic topics

- TOEFL Listening practice test (morning)

- Evaluate errors and progress

- Optional: practice other modules

Day 6

- Full-length TOEFL mock test

- Assess overall improvement

- Focus on weak areas identified

Day 7

Relax and perform mindful techniques


TOEFL 2024 tips and tricks

Section

Tips and Tricks

Understanding the TOEFL Format

- Know the exam structure: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing.

Preparation Strategy

- Start early for ample practice time.

- Take TOEFL practice tests to familiarize with the format and question types.

Reading Section

- Practice reading academic texts to improve comprehension skills.

- Time yourself to complete reading tasks within the allocated time.

Listening Section

- Listen to podcasts, lectures, and conversations in English for practice.

- Develop effective note-taking techniques during the listening section.

Speaking Section

- Regularly practice speaking English; record and evaluate your speaking skills.

- Familiarize yourself with common TOEFL speaking topics.

Writing Section

- Practice different types of essays (opinion, integrated) to improve writing skills.

- Work on grammar and vocabulary to express ideas clearly.

General Tips

- Manage time effectively during the exam; pace yourself.

- Stay calm and confident; if unsure of an answer, move on and return to it later.

- Review answers before submitting to correct errors.


- Take a full-length TOEFL mock test close to exam day to simulate test conditions.

- Ensure adequate rest the night before the exam for optimal performance.


TOEFL exam day tips

  • Get Adequate Rest: Ensure you get a good night's sleep before the exam day to be alert and focused during the test.
  • Eat Well: Have a nutritious breakfast to provide your brain with the energy it needs for maximum performance.
  • Arrive Early: Aim to arrive at the test center early. This allows you to settle in, review any last-minute details, and familiarize yourself with the environment.
  • Bring Required Documents: Double-check and prepare all necessary documents, such as your valid ID (passport or driver's license) and TOEFL registration confirmation. Make sure they are in place and easily accessible.
  • Read Instructions Thoroughly: Take a moment to carefully read through all instructions provided for each section of the exam. Understanding what is expected will help you manage your time effectively.
  • Manage Your Time: Pace yourself during each section to ensure you have enough time to complete all tasks. Keep an eye on the clock and allocate time wisely to each question or task.
  • Stay Calm and Focused: If you come across a challenging question, stay calm. You can skip it and come back later if time permits. Maintain focus on the task at hand and avoid distractions.
  • Utilize Provided Resources: Use the scratch paper and pencil provided to note down notes, brainstorm ideas for writing tasks, or outline your thoughts for the speaking section. These resources are there to assist you.
  • Review Your Answers: If time allows at the end of each section, go back and review your answers. Check for any errors or areas where you might want to reconsider your response.
  • Stay Positive: Regardless of how you feel the exam went, stay positive. Trust in your preparation and effort leading up to the exam day. Keep in mind that your performance reflects your overall readiness and practice.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can anyone prepare for the TOEFL exam in 7 days?

Yes, of course, if the candidate is dedicated and focused, he/she can prepare for the exam in 7 days.

2. How to improve vocabulary to get good scores in the TOEFL exam?

Listening to authenticated documentaries or reading academic texts on a regular basis will surely help in enhancing the vocabulary required in the TOEFL exam.

3. Which module of the TOEFL exam needs maximum practice?

This totally depends on the individual; however, we highly recommend that a diagnostic test (TOEFL practice test) should be given before starting the preparation so that you realize the tough module and prepare your timetable accordingly.

4. How to deal with anxiety issues while attempting the exam?

One should never forget the end goal, practicing mindful activities like meditation for at least 5-10 minutes will help a lot in keeping the anxiety away.

5. Are TOEFL mock test available for free online?

Yes, there are some TOEFL authenticated websites wherein you can attempt up to 4 mock tests free. Also, if you join any online community of TOEFL preparation, there are people who keep sharing a lot of free material for you to practice.

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Questions related to TOEFL

Have a question related to TOEFL ?

GRE, TOEFL, IELTS, and GMAT are standardized tests often required for admission to universities abroad, but they serve different purposes. The **GRE** (Graduate Record Examination) is used for admission to graduate programs and some business schools, focusing on verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. The **TOEFL** (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and **IELTS** (International English Language Testing System) assess English language proficiency, often required for non-native speakers applying to English-speaking countries; TOEFL is more common in the U.S., while IELTS is popular in the U.K. and other regions. The **GMAT** (Graduate Management Admission Test) is specifically for business school admissions, testing quantitative, verbal, analytical writing, and integrated reasoning skills, and is required for MBA programs. I would advise that you get in touch with a prominent abroad education advisor - a great one will really help you through the entire process, end-to-end.


If you have good English proficiency, both IELTS and TOEFL should be manageable, but each has its unique format. IELTS is considered more straightforward in terms of language and structure, especially its speaking test, which involves a face-to-face conversation with an examiner. TOEFL, on the other hand, is entirely computer-based, including the speaking section. In terms of preparation time, if you're confident in your English skills, around 2 to 4 weeks of focused study, mainly familiarizing yourself with the test format and practicing timed exercises, should be sufficient. Ultimately, the "easier" test depends on your comfort with the test style.

For students aiming to study in public universities, English language proficiency exams like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and TOEIC are often required because they are specifically designed to assess English skills in an academic context, which is crucial for success in such institutions. DELF, which tests French language proficiency, may not be sufficient for English-speaking universities. For personalized guidance on which exams are necessary and how to prepare, Invicta Career Consultancy can provide valuable support and tailored advice, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are both standardized tests used to assess English language proficiency, but they have some key differences. IELTS is typically used in the UK, Australia, and Canada, while TOEFL is more commonly accepted by U.S. universities. IELTS includes four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, with the Speaking test conducted face-to-face. In contrast, TOEFL also covers Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, but the Speaking section is recorded and evaluated later. IELTS is paper-based or computer-based, whereas TOEFL is primarily internet-based (iBT). Additionally, IELTS uses a band scoring system ranging from 1 to 9, while TOEFL scores range from 0 to 120. The IELTS is often seen as more suitable for British English and everyday contexts, while TOEFL is more academic and American English-focused.

To be eligible to study an MBA at Seoul National University (SNU), you typically need to submit either IELTS or TOEFL scores to demonstrate English proficiency. Additionally, you will need a GMAT score as part of the application process, while CAT and MAT scores are not usually accepted. For personalized guidance on the application requirements and process, you can consult with Invicta Career Consultancy, which can provide expert advice and support in navigating the admissions process for studying abroad, While there are other options available, hence you can pay a visit to their website (icclearning.com) and get consult with them for better guidance. All the best to you.

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