Do you need help with your TOEFL writing practice? Make a note of the facts provided here to ace the writing test.

Failing to understand the task

The first most common TOEFL Writing mistake students make failing to understand the task. Before beginning to write your essay, it's important to ensure you understand what is expected of you. This means taking the time to read the instructions and prompts carefully and ensuring you clearly understand the topic and requirements. If you're unsure about any aspect of the task, don't hesitate to ask for clarification. Ensuring you understand the task is crucial for writing an effective and successful essay.

For example, if the prompt asks you to write an opinion essay about the benefits of studying abroad, but you write a compare and contrast essay about the differences between studying abroad and studying in your home country, you still need to understand the task. To avoid this mistake, take the time to read the prompt and instructions carefully, and ask any questions you have to clarify your understanding of the task. This will ensure that you are on the right track and can write an effective essay addressing the prompt.

Not following the word count.

The second most common TOEFL Writing mistake that students make has poor organisation. This means not having a clear structure or plan for their essay or jumping from one idea to another without making clear connections between them. Poor organisation can make it difficult for the reader to follow your argument and understand your point of view.

To avoid this mistake, it's important to have a clear outline for your essay before you start writing. This can help you stay on track and ensure that your ideas are logically organised and easy to follow. Use transitional words and phrases to link your ideas and create a smooth flow between paragraphs. By having a good organisation in your essay, you can increase the clarity and coherence of your writing, making it easier for the reader to understand your argument.

Using informal language

The third most common TOEFL Writing mistake is poor grammar. This can include incorrect verb tense, incorrect subject-verb agreement, incorrect use of articles, and other common grammatical errors. Poor grammar can make it difficult for the reader to understand your ideas and can detract from the overall quality of your writing.

To avoid this mistake, it's important to brush up on basic grammar rules and to carefully proofread your writing before submitting it. You can also consider using grammar check tools or seeking help from a tutor or language exchange partner. By taking the time to improve your grammar, you can make your writing more effective and help communicate your ideas more clearly.

Lack of organisation

The fourth most common TOEFL Writing mistake is failing to develop ideas fully. This means not providing enough detail or support for your ideas or simply restating the prompt without offering any original insights. This can make your writing seem shallow or unoriginal, resulting in a lower score on the TOEFL Writing section.

To avoid this mistake, it's important to think critically about the prompt and to develop your ideas thoroughly. This can include providing specific examples, statistics, or other relevant evidence to support your argument. By offering well-developed and fully supported ideas, you can demonstrate your understanding of the topic and your ability to write an effective and successful essay.

Lack of transitions

The fifth most common TOEFL Writing mistake is using informal language. This can include using contractions, informal expressions, and another language more suited for casual conversations than academic writing. This type of language can make your writing seem unprofessional and negatively impact your score on the TOEFL Writing section.

To avoid this mistake, using formal, academic language in your writing is important. This means avoiding contractions, using proper grammar and vocabulary, and avoiding slang or overly casual expressions. By using formal language, you can demonstrate your ability to write effectively in an academic setting and help ensure that your writing is taken seriously by the reader.

Inconsistent use of tenses

The sixth most common TOEFL Writing mistake is accurately answering the prompt. This can include ignoring parts of the prompt, going off-topic, or failing to address the key question or issue presented in the prompt. This can result in a lower score on the TOEFL Writing section and demonstrate a lack of understanding of the task.

To avoid this mistake, it's important to read and understand the prompt before you start writing carefully. Make sure you answer all parts of the prompt and that your writing addresses the key issue or question. By staying focused and accurately answering the prompt, you can show that you have a strong understanding of the task and can write an effective and successful essay.

FAQ’s

Q. What is the TOEFL test?

The TOEFL test (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a standardised test used to evaluate the English language proficiency of non-native speakers. It measures reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills and is widely accepted by colleges, universities, and other institutions as proof of English proficiency.

Q. Who takes the TOEFL test?

The TOEFL test is typically taken by non-native English speakers planning to study in an English-speaking country, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, or Australia. It is also often required by employers who want to assess the English language proficiency of potential employees.

Q. How is the TOEFL test scored?

The TOEFL test is scored on a scale of 0-120 points, with each section (reading, listening, speaking, and writing) worth a maximum of 30 points. The scores from each section are combined to create a total score, which is then used to evaluate a test taker's overall English proficiency.

Q. How long does the TOEFL test take?

The TOEFL test takes approximately 4 hours, including check-in and breaks. The reading and listening sections take approximately 60-90 minutes each, the speaking section takes approximately 20 minutes, and the writing section takes approximately 50 minutes.

Q. How often is the TOEFL test offered?

The TOEFL test is offered several times per month, and test-takers can choose the date and location that is most convenient for them. The test is offered at authorised testing centres worldwide, and test-takers can register online or by mail.

Q. How much does the TOEFL test cost?

The TOEFL test cost varies by location, but as of 2021, the standard fee is $200. Some locations may have an additional fee for test centre services.

Q. How is the TOEFL test structured?

The TOEFL test consists of four sections: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. The reading and listening sections assess a test-takers ability to understand written and spoken English. In contrast, the speaking and writing sections assess a test-takers ability to communicate in English.

Q. How can I prepare for the TOEFL test?

Many resources are available to help test-takers prepare for the TOEFL test, including official TOEFL study materials, practice tests, and English language classes. Test-takers can also find a wealth of information and advice on test preparation on the TOEFL website and other online resources.