ULTIMATE GUIDE ON HOW TO PREPARE FOR TOEFL AT HOME|| PROVEN STRATEGIES

 

 

 

An internationally recognized standardized test called the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) evaluates a person's proficiency in four areas of English communication: reading, listening, speaking, and writing.

The TOEFL, which should not be confused with the TOEIC (which measures English proficiency for the workforce), attempts to give test-takers a fair, impartial, and accurate picture of their skills in a real-world learning environment.

The TOEFL is a three-hour test that is typically given online (TOEFL iBT), on paper (TOEFL PBT), or in a classroom.

 

How to prepare for the TOEFL the right way

Finding the correct tutor can be very beneficial in determining your personal areas of growth because TOEFL preparation is frequently a matter of personal choice and learning style. The same time, familiarity, focus, and foresight—three test preparation principles—can assist you in creating a sound strategy for preparing for the TOEFL.

 

How to prepare for the four basic language skills

 

Reading

While reading whatever interests you is a common TOEFL reading advice, the high-level academic texts on the TOEFL reading exam make periodicals, personal blogs, and social media less than ideal study resources.

 

Instead, try to study scholarly literature and academic papers that cover subjects like the biological and physical sciences, the humanities, and the social sciences that are pertinent to a classroom environment. The use of news items, particularly those with interactive components, is also a good way to learn vocabulary at a higher level.

Listening

While passive listening abilities may generally be improved by watching English-language films and television programs, it's vital to keep in mind that, like the reading component of the TOEFL, the listening section assesses students' proficiency in academic English.

 

While incorporating some conversational English into your daily practice is beneficial, keep in mind that popular media often deviates from accepted grammar conventions and contains slang that may not be appropriate for academic settings.

 

Having said that, viewing the news and documentaries as well as listening to podcasts about subjects covered on the TOEFL are both excellent strategies to improve your listening skills and become more familiar with TOEFL terminology.

Speaking

While watching English-language movies and television shows can generally help with passive listening skills, it's important to remember that, like the TOEFL reading exam, the listening section evaluates students' competency in academic English.

 

Even though it's beneficial to include some conversational English in your daily practice, remember that popular media frequently veers from standard grammar rules and uses slang that might not be appropriate for academic situations.

 

However, watching news and documentaries and listening to podcasts on topics covered on the TOEFL are both great ways to develop your listening abilities and familiarize yourself with TOEFL terminology.

Writing

The best TOEFL writing strategies are those that let you expand your vocabulary while still adhering to proper English grammar and syntax. Start by studying the terminology, such as active verbs, certain adjectives, and transitions, that will be most helpful to explain a variety of themes.

 

Then, decide which concepts you still have problems explaining in English, and create a list of vocabulary phrases that will help you convey your thoughts fully and effectively. To make sure your writing adheres to standard English grammar and usage while you're practicing, you can use free internet resources like Grammarly and GrammarLookup.com.

 

It can be beneficial to have your writing assessed by a professional who is familiar with how TOEFL graders will evaluate it because the writing section can be challenging to evaluate.

 

How much time do you need to prepare for TOEFL?

Depending on your level of English, your knowledge with standardized language tests, and your desired score, you will need to start preparing for the TOEFL at a specific time. No matter how many weeks or months you spend studying for the TOEFL, research demonstrates that spaced repetition is typically more efficient than massed repetition.

 

Given this, making a designated block of time each day for practice that is free from interruptions and distractions is a smart idea. It never hurts to begin long before the deadline because, depending on your TOEFL score, you might need to repeat it.

How do I register for the TOEFL?

Making an account on the ETS website or app will allow you to register for the TOEFL online and guide you through the procedure. You can register by mail or phone as well. If you want to secure your favorite testing time and date, register well in advance because some test dates can become unavailable after all the seats have been taken.

 

Make your request for accommodations in advance and provide the required paperwork. (Note: It is crucial to check your region's criteria before continuing as registration and fees may differ per country.

What to do the day before the TOEFL?

The day before your TOEFL, you should familiarize yourself with the supplies you'll need and the procedure for checking in. You can think about going over some important details, such the test format or the vocabulary items you find challenging.

 

For how long is the TOEFL valid?

The validity of your TOEFL score is two years. Although submitting official scores is frequently required by institutions, it is advised that test takers obtain a PDF copy of their results for convenience.

Good luck!