TL;DR
The TOEFL writing section includes two core tasks – an integrated essay and an academic essay. The integrated task includes reading, listening, and summarizing, while the academic TOEFL essay asks you to provide an objective, fact-based answer based on your understanding. Scoring well on the TOEFL depends on comprehension, logic, structure, and strategy, not just English grammar.
Introduction
The first step in your journey to study abroad is the TOEFL. The Test of English as a Foreign Language measures how well you understand, write, and speak English. It’s not just about acing English; it’s about how well you comprehend and then communicate with clarity and structure. You must think fast, write well, and ace the time-bound test.
Planning to prepare for the TOEFL exam in Dubai? We are here to help you with important, relevant tip to deliver a strong performance.
Why the TOEFL Writing Section Matters
Imagine you are in a foreign country where academic communication is in English. This is why having a strong grasp of written communication makes a difference. The TOEFL writing section proves you can organise your thoughts, communicate them well in academic English.
A good writing score is an easy pass to get into top universities. It also significantly improves scholarship chances. It is a clear standout document for academic and work applications.
It helps professionals like doctors, engineers, business students, and researchers. Your TOEFL essay matters as much as your speaking and reading scores.
Understanding the Two TOEFL Writing Tasks
The TOEFL writing section has two tasks, each testing different skill sets.
Integrated Writing
Under this, you are expected to read a short paragraph of an academic text. This will be followed by a professor’s lecture on the subject. Your task would be to analyze how the lecture supports or contrasts the text you read.
This is not a personal opinion, but a summary of factual information to support your understanding. It is about explaining both perspectives clearly
Time: 20 minutes
Length: ~150–225 words
Writing for an Academic Discussion
This format explores conceptual understanding and states objective facts. Here, a professor’s prompt is usually provided. This could be in the context of an online discussion, followed by two student responses, for instance. You then have 10 minutes to give your own response on the subject matter. You must be clear about your argument, state your opinion backed by logic and facts. This is the most updated task format of the TOEFL writing IBT.
Time: 30 minutes
Length: ~250–300 words
Common Mistakes Most Students Make and How to Fix Them
Most students make predictable, avoidable mistakes. Here’s how you can work on them.
Plan and write
Don’t let the time pressure get to you. Most students just get to writing right away without giving it a thought.
Fix: Outline your essay first. Organize the main idea, supporting points, and conclusion. Once done, you can fill it up with content. Conclude strongly by spenaextraextra few minutes on this section.
Copy Pasting
Never copy-paste texts or complete sentences from the reading passages. It’s best to understthe text and and paraphrittext.
Fix: Use synonyms, contextual meaning, and different sentence structures to paraphrase. Do not directly copy and paste.
Unsatisfactory Explanation
When adding a solid opinion, simple phrases like ‘This is great’ or ‘This is bad’ backfire you. It shows a lack of depth and understanding.
Fix: Use real-world examples to explain your opinion better. Use real-world examples, academic examples, or personal experience. You can also arrive at an opinion by explaining a real experience.
Overcomplicating English
A common misconception is that big words, complicated language are a measure of command over a language. This is false and contrary advice.
Fix: Explain in a simple yet professional formal tone. Short sentences hold the user’s attention. Simplify your thoughts into small, easily digestible sentences to improve readability.
Review and Revise
Don’t be hurrying the last word into your essay at the very last second. Typing until the last second can leave you open to mistakes.
Fix: Review your draft for spelling and grammar errors. Revise.
Proven Strategies and TOEFL Tips that Work
- Structure your draft well. A good introduction, a clear middle explanation, and a solid conclusion are a must. A clear structure earns easy wins.
- Focus on transition words like ‘additionally, ‘however, ‘therefore. ’ Having a flow to your draft improves readability.
- Use simple TOEFL writing templates to stay structured and avoid confusion.
- Final finishing touches are very important. Use those last few minutes wisely.
Check out our detailed TOEFL Speaking Tips and TOEFL Reading Tips guides to improve your complete test performance.
TOEFL Writing Templates for Ease
Practice on multiple TOEFL writing test templates for ease. This can help you move forward when you feel stuck.
Integrated Writing Template
Within the integrated TOEFL writing section, you must include
Intro:
The lecture challenges the points made in the reading. The speaker argues that…
Body (Paragraph 1):
- Reading point
- Lecture response – why it disagrees or supports
Body (Paragraph 2):
- Reading point
- Lecture response: Use paraphrasing, not exact sentences.
Conclusion:
The lecturer offers strong reasons that counter the reading.
This simple format can help you stay organized.
Academic Essay Template
Opening Statement
State your opinion clearly within the first two lines with a reason to support your argument.
Body Paragraph
3–5 sentences: explain logically; respond to at least one other student
Closing
1–2 sentences: reinforce the argument, no new ideas
This works for almost every TOEFL essay topic.
Sample Writing Practice Exercises
- Practice 1: Professor’s prompt: Many universities now offer the same course both online and on campus. Which format do you believe is more effective for student learning, and why?.
- Practice 2: Integrated Essay – Reading: “Solar energy is the future.”
- Lecture: Lists reasons why it is not reliable today.
- Write 150–225 words. Compare both sources clearly.
- Practice 3: Opinion Essay
- Some people prefer living alone. Others prefer living with family. Which do you prefer?”
- Explain with examples.
Best Books and Tools for TOEFL preparation
- Here are some important books you must use during prepping
- Barron’s TOEFL iBT: Excellent for sample essays and templates.
- Cambridge Preparation for the TOEFL Test: Good for writing and listening practice.
- Kaplan TOEFL iBT Premier: Also includes mock exams and a strategy breakdown.
Conclusion
A good TOEFL score is all about effective communication and comprehension. At DG Training, we help students understand, think clearly, and present ideas with a logical flow. With continuous practice and proven strategies, we can help you improve your score.
Get expert support, certified instructors, and mock exams that help you score. Enroll in the TOEFL preparation course in Dubai by DG Training.
FAQs
The TOEFL is a 30-minute test. Of which, 20 minutes are for integrated writing and 10 minutes for academic writing.
General practice suggests writing 150-225 words for an integrated. And around 250–300 words.
In an academic essay, you can have your opinion/argument based on facts provided. In an integrated essay, a more factual and informational account is expected.
Yes. Grammar, structure, and organization can significantly impact your score.
Write daily, read sample essays, time yourself, and review mistakes.
