TOEFL Preparation Tips

Introduction

• Host: Lingua Marina
• Topic: Overview of TOEFL, personal experiences, and preparation tips

Personal Experience with TOEFL

• Took TOEFL twice: 2015 (117/120) and last year (115/120)
• First preparation: 10 days (also preparing for GMAT)
• Second preparation: minimal prep focused on home test experience

Key Insights on TOEFL

• Preparation Duration:

  • 2 weeks of preparation for those with an intermediate level or above
  • Beginners will struggle to score above 100
  • Preparation shouldn't take more than 1-2 months

• English Level:

  • Essential to be at least upper-intermediate to score well (80+ is typically required by universities)

Study Tips

• Templates:

  • Using templates for speaking and writing can help structure responses and reduce exam stress

• Phrasal Verbs:

  • Important for the writing section; a free PDF of phrasal verbs available for download

Test Structure Overview

1. Reading Section: 54-72 minutes, 30-40 questions

   • Focus: Detail-oriented reading; review answers for corrections

2. Listening Section: 41-55 minutes, 28-39 questions

   • Strategy: Take thorough notes on details, names, dates, etc.
   • Use break time to observe other test-takers' speaking topics

3. Speaking Section: 17 minutes, 4 tasks

   • Importance of using templates and practice

4. Writing Section: 50 minutes, 2 tasks

   • Scoring based on vocabulary, structure, and variety
   • Aim for diversified vocabulary and introductory phrases

Practice Recommendations

• Take free practice tests to gauge progress and familiarize with test atmosphere
• Regular reading of articles (BBC, The Economist, etc.) to improve comprehension
• Note-taking practice to improve skills for listening and speaking sections
• Variety of Accents: Get used to different English accents (British, Australian, etc.)

Additional Skills:

• Touch Typing: Learn to type without looking at the keyboard
• Speaking Practice: Practice speaking by summarizing content from videos or texts to improve fluency

Conclusion and Call to Action

• Engage with the course offered for structured learning and template usage
• Encourage viewers to comment on their test dates and desired scores
• Reminder to share the video and subscribe for more content.