If you want to enroll in universities abroad, you need to take the TOEFL test since it tests your proficiency in the English language. To ace this test, you need to master your reading, listening, speaking and writing skills.
As John Galsworthy states, “Beginnings are always messy”. So, you may find yourself in the hot tub while commencing this journey. But that should not scare you. Anything can be mastered with patience, dedication and commitment.
A little systematic approach and curiosity about learning can help you increase your score and land you in your dream college. With the following tips, you can soar in your TOEFL test preparation.
Understand the TOEFL Test Structure
Before diving into your study materials, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the Test of English as a Foreign Language test format. The TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test) is divided into four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. Each section assesses different skills and has its own format:
- Reading: This section measures your ability to understand and interpret academic texts. You’ll encounter 3-4 passages with ten questions each and have 54-72 minutes to complete them.
- Listening: This section evaluates your ability to understand conversations and lectures in this language. You’ll listen to 3-4 lectures and 2-3 conversations, followed by questions. The section lasts 41-57 minutes.
- Speaking: The Speaking section assesses your ability to express your ideas in English. It consists of 4 tasks: 1 independent and 3 integrated tasks. You have 17 minutes to complete this section.
- Writing: This section measures your ability to write in English in an academic setting. It includes 2 tasks: an integrated task (20 minutes) and an independent task (30 minutes).
Understanding the structure will help you know what to expect and how to allocate your study time effectively.
2. Set Clear Goals
Setting specific, measurable goals is a critical first step in your exam preparation. Determine the score you need by researching the requirements of the schools or institutions you’re applying to. For example, if your target university requires a minimum TOEFL score of 100, your goal should be to achieve at least that score.
Once you’ve established your target score, break it down by section. For instance, if you need to improve your Speaking score, you might set a goal to practice speaking English for 30 minutes daily. Clear goals will guide your study plan and keep you focused.
3. Create a Study Schedule
A well-structured study schedule is essential for adequate TOEFL exam preparation. Start by assessing how much time you have until your test date and how many hours you can study each week. Then, divide your time among the four sections of the TOEFL, focusing more on your weaker areas.
For example, suppose you have three months to prepare. In that case, you might spend the first month building your foundational skills, the second month practicing with TOEFL-specific materials, and the final month taking practice tests and refining your strategies. A study schedule will help you stay organized and ensure you cover all the necessary content.
4. Gather High-Quality Study Materials
The quality of your study materials can make a significant difference in your Test of English as a Foreign Language exam preparation. Start with official TOEFL materials provided by ETS (Educational Testing Service), such as the Official Guide to the TOEFL Test and official practice tests. These resources offer authentic test questions and insights into the test format.
In addition to official materials, consider using reputable preparation books, online courses, and apps. Some popular options include Kaplan’s TOEFL iBT Prep Plus, Barron’s TOEFL iBT, and Magoosh’s TOEFL Prep. These resources offer a variety of practice questions, strategies, and tips to help you improve your skills.
5. Practice Regularly with Sample Tests
Regular practice tests are crucial for the Test of English as a Foreign Language preparation. Practice tests help you get used to the timing, question types, and overall test experience. They also allow you to track your progress and identify improvement areas.
Start by taking a full-length practice test to establish your baseline score. This will give you an idea of where you stand and what you must work on. As you progress through your preparation, take additional practice tests to monitor your improvement and fine-tune your strategies.
6. Improve Your English Skills in Everyday Life
In addition to targeted TOEFL practice, it’s essential to immerse yourself in English as much as possible. Incorporate English into your daily life by reading books, articles, and academic papers in English, watching English-language movies and TV shows, and listening to podcasts and lectures.
Engage in conversations with native speakers or fellow learners to practice your speaking and listening skills. Writing in this language daily, whether through journaling, blogging, or academic essays, will also help you develop your writing proficiency. The more you practice using English in real-life situations, the more confident you’ll become in your abilities.
7. Consider Professional English Courses
If you find that you need additional support, enrolling in a professional English course specifically designed for TOEFL preparation can be highly beneficial. These courses offer structured learning, expert guidance, and personalized feedback, which can help you address your weaknesses and improve your performance.
In Los Angeles, for example, numerous institutions offer preparation courses tailored to different skill levels and learning styles. These courses can provide the tools and strategies you need to achieve your desired score.
8. Stay Motivated and Positive
Preparation for thai exam can be challenging, but staying motivated and maintaining a positive attitude is key to your success. Set small milestones along the way and reward yourself when you achieve them. Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage your efforts, and remember that consistent practice and determination will lead to improvement.
Conclusion
Starting your preparation can feel daunting, but by understanding the test structure, setting clear goals, creating a study schedule, and using high-quality materials, you can set yourself up for success. Regular practice, immersion in this language, and professional courses can further enhance your preparation. Stay motivated, and remember that with dedication and the right approach, you can achieve your goals and take the next step in your academic or professional journey.
