TOEFL Preparation Tips

Quick Answer: Start TOEFL iBT preparation by reading the current format on ets.org, because the test changed in January 2026, then take an official practice test to find your weakest skill. Spend most of your time on that skill with timed, typed and recorded practice on a computer, and rely on official ETS materials for the new task types.

Key takeaways

• The updated TOEFL iBT launched in January 2026: it is shorter, adaptive, and reports a 1 to 6 band scale with a comparable 0 to 120 score during a transition period.
• All four skills, Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking, are taken on a computer, and speaking is recorded into a microphone.
• Books and videos made before 2026 may describe tasks that no longer exist, so check every task type against ets.org.
• Results are typically accepted for two years, but universities may set their own rules and minimum section scores.
• A simple speaking frame works under time pressure: main point, reason, example, short wrap-up.

Understand the current TOEFL iBT

The TOEFL iBT, made by ETS, measures English for academic and everyday settings. It has four skills: Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking, all taken on a computer.

In January 2026 ETS launched an updated version. The main changes are:

• A shorter test with adaptive sections, where later questions depend on how you answer earlier ones.
• Updated task types, with everyday and practical English alongside academic content.
• A new 1 to 6 score scale, aligned with CEFR levels, with a comparable 0 to 120 score reported during the transition.

Because of these changes, older books and websites may describe tasks that no longer exist. Always check the official ETS website for the current structure, timing and fees; this guide deliberately avoids quoting them. If you are still choosing an exam, see IELTS vs TOEFL.

Step 1: Diagnose

Take an official ETS practice test. Note your score in each section and which task types felt hardest. Many learners find that Speaking and Writing scores trail behind Reading and Listening.

Step 2: Plan your study

Phase	Focus	Example daily routine
Foundation	Academic vocabulary, grammar accuracy	20 minutes vocabulary, 20 minutes reading, 20 minutes listening
Skills	Task types for each section	One section per day with careful review
Exam practice	Timed sections on computer	Two timed sections daily, review every error
Final week	Full practice tests, rest	One full test, light review, good sleep

If your English is below B2 overall, spend more time in the foundation phase. Exam strategy works best when your general English is strong; see B2 English level.

Reading tips

• Read actively. For each paragraph, ask: what is the main point, and why is it here?
• Learn academic word families: analyze, analysis, analytical; significant, significance.
• Practice short and long texts. The updated test includes everyday texts as well as academic passages.
• Do not get stuck. In an adaptive section, accuracy matters, but so does keeping pace.

Listening tips

• Take quick notes. Write key words, numbers and the speaker's main point, not full sentences.
• Listen for structure: "The first reason is...", "However...", "What this means is...".
• Notice attitude. Questions often ask how a speaker feels or why they say something.
• Practice daily with academic audio such as university lectures and science podcasts. Our guide on improving your English listening has a step-by-step method.

Writing tips

• Learn the task types from the official ETS description, as they changed in 2026.
• Structure every answer: a clear opening, supporting points with examples, and a short conclusion.
• Use accurate, simple grammar rather than complex sentences you cannot control.
• Type fast and clean. Practice typing in English and leave time to check spelling.
• Answer the actual question, including every part of the prompt.

Example of a clear opinion opening:

"I believe universities should require students to take at least one course outside their major. This helps students develop broader thinking, and it can reveal interests they did not know they had."

Speaking tips

In TOEFL you speak to a computer, not a person. This feels strange at first, so practice it often.

• Use a timer every time. Short answers with clear structure score better than long, unfinished ones.
• Use a simple frame: main point, reason, example, short wrap-up.
• Speak at a natural pace. Clarity matters more than speed or a native accent.
• Record and review. Listen for pauses, filler words and grammar slips.

Example of a short, timed answer:

"I'd prefer to study in a group. First, group members can explain difficult topics to each other. For example, last semester my friend helped me understand statistics much faster than reading alone. So, for me, group study is more effective."

More practice ideas are in how to improve your English speaking.

Test day tips

• Home Edition: check your equipment and room against the official rules days in advance.
• Test center: arrive early with the correct ID.
• Use the equipment well: adjust volume and test your microphone when the system allows.
• Manage energy: sleep well and eat before the test.

Common mistakes

• Using outdated materials for the 2026 format.
• Memorizing templates so rigidly that answers sound unnatural or off-topic.
• Ignoring the score requirement details. Some universities want minimum section scores.
• Never practicing on a computer. Typing and microphone practice matter.
• Skipping review. Doing many tests without studying your mistakes gives little progress.

Practice: improve the answer

Rewrite each weak answer, then compare with the stronger version.

Weak	Stronger	What changed
"I like online classes because they are good and nice."	"I prefer online classes because they save commuting time, and I can rewatch recorded lectures when a topic is difficult."	Vague adjectives replaced with two concrete reasons
"Many people think many things about cars."	"Opinions on cars are divided: some see them as essential, while others want cities to invest in public transport."	Clear contrast and specific positions
"The professor talk about bees and they are important."	"The professor explains that bees matter because they pollinate many food crops."	Grammar fixed, reported speech, precise detail

Strong general English makes every TOEFL section easier. LearnLingo's free B2 course builds vocabulary and grammar in short browser-based lessons, with streaks and spaced review to keep you consistent.

People Also Ask

How do I start preparing for TOEFL?

Start with an official ETS practice test to see your current level, then read the official description of the current test format. Focus your study time on the sections where your score is lowest.

Did the TOEFL change in 2026?

Yes. ETS introduced an updated TOEFL iBT in January 2026 with a shorter, adaptive format, new task types and a 1 to 6 score scale, with a comparable 0 to 120 score reported during a transition period. Check ets.org for current details.

Can I take TOEFL at home?

Yes, ETS offers the TOEFL iBT Home Edition with remote proctoring. You need a suitable computer, camera, microphone and a quiet private room, and you must meet the official equipment rules.

How can I improve my TOEFL speaking score?

Practice speaking into a microphone with a timer, record yourself, and listen back. Clear structure, natural pace and accurate grammar matter more than a perfect accent.

Related Reading

• IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Should You Take?
• How to Improve Your English Listening
• How to Improve Your English Speaking
• B2 English Level: What You Can Do