7 Secret tricks to reach your TOEFL score target!
Do you need to take the TOEFL test but you don’t know how to reach your target score? Well, it’s not just you. Almost everyone who has to take the TOEFL test feels the same way. They’ve searched the internet for tips and tricks and strategies but there’s just too much stuff available… and sadly, most of it is useless which means that they end up wasting time and money and still don’t achieve their target.
Well, you’ve finally reached the right place! I’m going to give you 7 secrets you need to know to increase your score when you’re taking the TOEFL Paper-Based test.
1. Recognize the Different Question Types and Instructions
Get used to recognizing the various different types of questions. The way to do this is again by taking tons of practice tests. You should also familiarize yourself with the different types of instructions, as well as the deadlines given for completing each part of the test.
This will save you time and make you a speedy gonzales during the actual test! And the time you save can be used to pick up easy marks in the Reading and Structure sections. Doing a test without following the instructions correctly is a sure fired way to lose marks!
2. Make Time Your Friend
If you know how to use your time effectively, time will be your best friend. So time management is very important. Before starting, decide how much time you can spend answering each question. Don’t exceed the time limit that you have set. And don’t waste time on questions that are too difficult.
For example, in 5 minutes you can choose to answer 3 easy questions or 1 difficult question, you naturally know which one to choose because all questions have the same weight. Take your time to get as many points as possible!
3. Focus on Grammar and Vocabulary
Don’t forget, the TOEFL test measures your English language level. In other words: your vocabulary and grammar levels. You need to prove that your level of English is sufficient to pass the test.
So, how do you do this? You need to increase your vocabulary every day.
The best way to memorize vocabulary is to write down words and then activate them in your memory by using them in sentences. The TOEFL test measures your understanding of vocabulary in context. So use online or offline dictionary to find out what words mean and examples of how they are used in sentences.
4. Reading and Listening Skills
Practice these skills by reading news or online articles and by listening to podcasts or lectures. Learn to recognize the signs that indicate the location of important information within an article. For example, words like, “another point that I’d like to make …” or “this takes us to …” or even questions like “why is this so important?” usually indicate important information.
5. Learn How to Take Notes
You need to learn how to taking quick notes while doing the Reading and Listening tests. Learn to recognize keywords quickly. Underline key words that lead to the correct answer. This is the fastest way to find answers to Listening and Reading questions.
DO NOT write down every word. It’s a waste of time and it’s also ineffective. For example, don’t write whole sentences. Take only certain words such as nouns, verbs and adverbs.
Names and numbers are also important things that should be included in the notes. Use symbols and abbreviations that are easy to understand. Such as: $ (money, dollar), & (and), Ex, (example), X (wrong), etc.
6. Stay positive and focused
Learn to use negative emotions in a positive way. Stress can motivate you and help you stay focused — but too much of it will only hold you back. If you’re so stressed that you can’t concentrate, you won’t be able to show your best English.
The key is balance. Practice enough, know the test format, and trust the work you’ve done. On test day, stick to your routine and remind yourself how far you’ve come. This is your moment to show the results.
Language skills don’t improve overnight, but with the right strategy, real progress is absolutely possible.
7. Finally… Practice, Practice and PREPARE!
There are no shortcuts. While others are relaxing, you need to prepare.
Practice is key, but preparation has to be smart. Don’t rush into the test if you can postpone it, do. Extra time helps until you’re truly ready. Make a clear study plan, commit to it, and spend time building vocabulary, grammar, and test familiarity.
Take full simulation tests under real conditions: timed, no help, no shortcuts. Feeling nervous is normal, even useful. The more you practice under pressure, the better you’ll perform on test day.
At IELC, we teach English the right way
Our goal is to get you speaking in English with fluency and confidence as fast as possible. We want to give you the skills you need to fulfil your potential!
Our experienced teachers will guide you along every step of the learning process to ensure that you are not wasting your time, money, and energy on useless language exercises & wrong methods.
Our courses
With our modern campus and technology, we are equipped to provide the best possible courses for children, teens, and adults, including:
Online and on campus IELTS courses
Online and on campus TOEFL PBT courses
Online and on campus TOEFL iBT courses
We offer our classes in group classes or private classes.
No matter what your goals are, our team will help you achieve these goals by providing you with Indonesia’s best English courses!
Talk to our team today to get your FREE consultation and take your first step towards success.
Sincerely,
IELC Academic Director
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