TOEFL Preparation Tips 2024 - Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking, Pattern

TOEFL is a popular English language proficiency test accepted by most study abroad universities as a standard to evaluate the English proficiency of the candidates. Therefore, the preparation process for the test is also challenging for international students. In this article, we have tried to highlight a few significant TOEFL preparation tips 2024 to better prepare you for the test.

TOEFL: Sample Papers | Preparation Tips | Guide

TOEFL reading section practice tests

Register for TOEFL®.  Accepted in 150 countries worldwide 

This Story also Contains

1. How Long Does it Take to Prepare for the TOEFL exam?
2. TOEFL Preparation Tips
3. How to choose the best TOEFL Preparation Books?
4. TOEFL Preparation Materials
5. How to Prepare for TOEFL Section Wise?
6. How to Prepare for TOEFL in One Month?
7. TOEFL Self-Study Plan
8. TOEFL Preparation Online Free
9. TOEFL Preparation Material: TOEFL Go! Official App
10. Last Minute TOEFL Tips

Test takers looking for TOEFL 2024 preparation tips must familiarise themselves with the exam pattern and syllabus of the test to start their preparation. TOEFL test pattern has major four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section of the TOEFL iBT presents a different challenge. Therefore, the student must develop a unique strategy for each component of the TOEFL exam.

There are numerous TOEFL 2024 preparation tips available for test-takers including effective online and offline resources, expert guidance, tips and tricks for each PTE section, and many more. Students are recommended to start test preparation early to get a good TOEFL score. Read the complete article to access free TOEFL preparation materials, tips and tricks, and more.

How Long Does it Take to Prepare for the TOEFL exam?

Usually, TOEFL test preparation requires 2 to 3 months. However, the time required for TOEFL exam preparation varies depending on the core English strength of the test-takers. For candidates who are already familiar with English, TOEFL preparation time can be a month. It is best to start early because students have to get familiar with the entire TOEFL syllabus, identify difficult areas, and practice as many sample papers as required. It is crucial to factor in all these aspects when setting a time for TOEFL exam preparation. Learning and practising TOEFL tips and tricks also impacts TOEFL exam preparation time.

TOEFL Preparation Tips

The top 8 important TOEFL test preparation tips for students are as follows:

1. A clear understanding of the exam format: A candidate must be aware or have a clear understanding of the exam format. This can be done by visiting the official TOEFL website. An understanding of both the formats of the exam which is an internet-based test (iBT) and a paper-based test (PBT) is a must.

2. Choose the best study guide: Choose a good TOEFL study guide that provides the candidate with how to start preparation, study plans, study advice, strategy tips, practice questions, and example answers for all sections of the exam. There are various books you can select the best books for TOEFL preparation.

3. Strict to a study routine: A candidate must follow the timetable in advance of their test date. Allocate proper time to each section and dedicatedly increase study hours as the exam approaches. A consistent routine will the candidate stay organized, and focused to cover all sections of the exam.

4. Try to read and listen to English from outside sources as well: There are many English language materials beyond TOEFL resources. The candidates must indulge themselves in those resources such as reading novels, watching English movies, and listening to English songs. It helps the candidates to expose themselves to real-world English usage. The English practice can enhance their language skills.

5. Practice speaking English: Regular English practice helps the candidates overcome language barriers. The candidates can build confidence by engaging themselves in conversations, recording themselves, or participating in language exchange programs.

6. Practice writing practice by setting a timer: The candidates can face or feel exam pressure when they practice under timed conditions. This practice also improves time management skills. The candidates must set time limits for each part of the essay such as planning, writing, and revising.

7. Learn the QWERTY keyboard: Practice the QWERTY keyboard layout if a candidate is not accustomed to it. Since the TOEFL internet-based test (iBT) requires typing essays, practice typing on a QWERTY keyboard to improve typing speed and accuracy is a must.

8. Practice with TOEFL sample papers: TOEFL practice tests and sample papers are a valuable aspect of TOEFL preparation strategy. The sample papers will contain questions similar to questions in the actual test. Solving sample papers gives a good idea of what to expect on test day. Solving sample questions will also give an insight into strengths and weaknesses and the areas aspirants need to improve when preparing for TOEFL exam.

How to choose the best TOEFL Preparation Books?

TOEFL is an international test that follows varying question patterns every time. There are no content specifications for this kind of exam. Prospective students must rely on TOEFL preparation material that prepares them with the necessary skills to ace the exam. So it is important to choose good books for TOEFL. Chosen books must give an exhaustive preparation material for test takers. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing books for TOEFL.

1. Ensure the book has sufficient study material that covers various concepts related to TOEFL exam subjects. This helps to learn all the basics and contents in each subject.
2. The chosen book must have enough practice exercises in each TOEFL subject that cover all the question types that are expected to appear in TOEFL exam.
3. It is beneficial if the chosen books also provide online material and digital resources that can further assist candidates on TOEFL preparation journey. For example, expert advice, listening topics, etc.
4. Check if a TOEFL preparation book offers plenty of mock tests, directly or indirectly, to take and evaluate performance. Because buying TOEFL mock tests is not free.

TOEFL Preparation Materials

TOEFL books and study materials are significant resources for test preparation. Numerous exam guides, books, and online, and offline resources are available for test-takers offering TOEFL preparation tips 2024. Choose the TOEFL study materials wisely to save time and prepare effectively.

• Official Guide to TOEFL: The most popular book from ETS is the Official Guide to TOEFL, which is in its fourth edition. This book includes details on all the sections along with sample texts written by previous test takers. It also has practice tests with answer keys. The other book from ETS is the Official TOEFL IBT tests with Audio files.

• Kaplan: Kaplan has two well-known preparation books for TOEFL. The test pack has over 100 practice questions.

• Cambridge: The preparation book from Cambridge has a wide variety of skill-building exercises and tips to improve grammar and vocabulary. An important feature of the book is a diagnostic test in the TOEFL format and four-section tests with answer keys that will help the student to check his progress in the reading, writing, listening and speaking sections of the test.

• Oxford: The Oxford Preparation Course for the TOEFL iBT Exam contains detailed instructions on each section and how to attempt them.

• Barron’s: Barron’s Practice Exercises for the TOEFL contain more than 1,000 practice tests to prepare students for both paper-based and internet-based tests. Barron’s guide to TOEFL has eight practice tests and gives instructions on all the sections.

Apart from this, there are many TOEFL study materials available online that students can use besides books for TOEFL preparation. Using preparation material is one of the best TOEFL preparation tips to get a good score.

Popular exams to study abroad:

How to Prepare for TOEFL Section Wise?

The TOEFL exam consists of four sections- reading, listening, speaking, and writing. We will look at TOEFL exam preparation tips for each section to maximise scoring in individual sections.

Tips for TOEFL Reading

The TOEFL iBT reading section tests a student's proficiency in reading and comprehending academic texts. The student will read three to four sections totaling about 700 words each throughout the reading test, and they will then have to respond to ten questions about each passage. Here we have some TOEFL preparation tips for TOEFL reading section.

TOEFL Reading Tips

• Be an avid reader: Pick up any reputable publication, such as The Hindu or Indian Express, a quality magazine, a book, or both, and read the text aloud. It would improve pronunciation in addition to vocabulary. This is one of the important tips for TOEFL reading.

• Understand grammar: A strong understanding of English grammar, its rules, and how it functions is crucial for the student. Focus on the tenses and parts of speech, such as nouns, pronouns, adjectives, verbs, and adverbs.

• Focus on comprehension practice: Learn to decipher a passage's underlying message and how to respond to questions based on it. This is important because the reading segment closely resembles answering a comprehension test. Consequently, read as many passages as possible, analyse them, and then practice responding to questions about them. This TOEFL preparation tip definitely helps score better in the reading section.

TOEFL Listening Tips

During the course of the listening test, the student will be asked to listen to lectures, classroom discussions, and conversations. Based on these lectures and discussions, the student will have to answer relevant questions. Know more about the TOEFL preparation tips for the listening section here.

1. Start listening to radio and TV broadcasts: The best sources for honing one's TOEFL listening skills are broadcasts on radio and television. There is no concern about picking up incorrect knowledge because everyone on the widely watched TV channels speaks and pronounces words correctly.

2. Watch English movies and TV series: These are some other beneficial resources that may be used as a backup. In reality, there are some films and television shows that are suggested for viewing for those looking to improve their listening abilities as part of the TOEFL preparation tips.

3. Note down the important points when listening to a broadcast or movie conversation: Doing this helps identify weaknesses and talk more effectively.

4. Mind the accent: The accent of Indians differs from that of English speakers. However, students must be able to grasp it regardless of the accent. Therefore, be sure to maintain a keen ear to recognize and comprehend various dialects. This is an important aspect of TOEFL Listening tips.

TOEFL Speaking Tips

The speaking section closely resembles the listening section. The speaking portion of the TOEFL iBT lasts for roughly 17 minutes and calls for students to use a microphone. The student must speak on well-known subjects and participate in debates on subjects they have read about or heard about. Read further about the TOEFL preparation tips for the speaking section.

1. Read out loud: When reading a textbook or any literary material pay attention to pronunciation and clarity. The exercise can be done even while listening to broadcast content, or watching a movie. After that students may speak after the character, and listen to how it sounds. This is an important TOEFL preparation tip to follow.

2. Record voice: Students can use several apps to record their voices. Recording helps assess changes by comparing our voices to those of professionals.

3. Know the subject: Know what are talking about always to sound convincing. Additionally, keep in mind that the themes for the speaking section are chosen from the reading and listening sections. So, by paying close attention and remembering the most important details from these areas, the speaking section will be much simpler. This aspect is an important part of TOEFL preparation tips.

Tips for TOEFL Writing

TOEFL writing section includes an integrated writing task and an individual writing activity. The student will read a passage, listen to a recording, and type a written response during the writing test. Following these TOEFL preparation tips will surely help ace the writing section.

1. Develop a reading habit: TOEFL reading is regarded as a crucial component of TOEFL exam preparation tips in this area. One can read well-written fiction and non-fiction as well as newspapers like the Hindu and Indian Express, prestigious magazines, and newspapers like the Hindu and Indian Express.

2. Take notes: Making notes can help stay on course as well as assist in spotting obstacles and challenging areas. As a result, students are more aware of what to do to fix it.

3. Do the necessary research: Another important aspect of TOEFL preparation tips is research. Research offers a firm foundation when presenting opinions, as arguments would be persuasive and have substance.

How to Prepare for TOEFL in One Month?

It is challenging to prepare for the TOEFL test in one month for Indian students. However, with effective preparation strategies, you can maximise your efforts to get a good TOEFL score. Here, we have provided a week-by-week plan to cover the TOEFL syllabus.

Week 1: Start Preparation with the Basics

• Keep the official TOEFL resources as the first go-to study material and complete study or revision of the topics in them, before going to other TOEFL study material.
• Complete each topic and attempt practice exercises at the end of each chapter to assess the performance.
• Revise everything studied at the end of the first week.

Week 2: Distribute Adequate Time for Reading, Writing, and Vocabulary

• Finish preparing for reading and writing sections in one go as both are interrelated.
• Start working on vocabulary for TOEFL and revise week 1 topics.
• Go for a TOEFL mock test if it is compulsory to track the progress. Moreover, taking a mock test reveals weak and strong areas. This is the best time to take up revision of the weak areas.

Week 3: Prepare for Speaking and Listening

• Start practicing the listening section by listening to audio material and trying to understand the underlying meaning.
• Taking notes is an important part of acing in the TOEFL listening section. Start practicing taking important notes in a quick time.
• Practice speaking on the topics given in the study material and self-record on mobile recorders.
• Take another mock test at this stage to see if any improvement has happened.

Week 4: Practice and Revision

• Dedicate the total week 4 for practice and revision of all the concepts studies, and vocabulary learned. Take more practice tests if necessary.

TOEFL Self-Study Plan

TOEFL self-study plan is very much a possibility for test takers. Try to create your own study plan and follow the TOEFL preparation strategies to ensure consistency and dedication. The main roadblock in self-study is distractions. To avoid distractions, dedicate a particular place to TOEFL preparation, and set aside exact timings for study, rest, relaxation, sleep, and other things.

TOEFL Preparation Online Free

Students can start their TOEFL preparation free of cost by utilising a number of online resources from Youtube or otherwise. Some of the best online free TOEFL resources are:

1. TOEFL Speaking Success in 90 Minutes by Udemy.
2. TOEFL Test Preparation: The Insider’s Guide by edX.
3. Better TOEFL Writing Techniques for ESL Speakers by Udemy.
4. The Complete Guide to TOEFL Writing by Skillshare.
5. Prepare for TOEFL by E2 Language.
6. ESL001: Beginning Lower-Intermediate English as a Second Language by Saylor
7. TOEFL Video Lessons.

TOEFL Preparation Material: TOEFL Go! Official App

ETS has introduced TOEFL Go! The official app for TOEFL preparation is free and can be used on the go to assist with TOEFL self-preparation. Download it from the Play Store for Android and the App Store for Apple phone users. It includes:

• One complete mock test of TOEFL iBT.
• Practice material for all four sections.
• Automated scoring that is powered by AI.
• Availability of performance feedback for all four sections.
• Personalised feedback along with TOEFL tips for Speaking and Writing sections.

Last Minute TOEFL Tips

Most students want to know how to prepare for TOEFL in the last week. While TOEFL exam tips are very useful for students starting preparation early, TOEFL last-minute tips can certainly give an edge to people attending the exam in the next 7 days. Here are some TOEFL last-minute tips for preparation.

1. Although there are no prerequisites for taking the TOEFL test, there are minimum requirements set by the institutions that use the test results. Before applying to them and beginning exam preparations, the students must be aware of them.

2. The candidate can acquire TOEFL study material PDF from the ETS to help them study for the test. Each of the four sections has a set of practice questions for TOEFL preparation.

3. The practice sets can also be completed online, and they come with a timer so the candidate can monitor how long it takes to finish each section. The candidates will be able to adjust their preparation as necessary based on their test-taking experience.

4. The free TOEFL iBT practice sets contain enough information for one entire test.

5. One could practice their typing speed before the writing section as part of TOEFL preparation.

Also Read:

• TOEFL registration 2024

• TOEFL participating institutes 2024

• TOEFL result 2024