For your education abroad, getting a good score in TOEFL is necessary, and for you to excel in the test, having a good grasp over the fundamentals of TOEFL is a necessity.
The English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) test is acceptable across 11,500+ global institutions and universities in 160+ countries. These include the UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. There are three testing options: the iBT (internet-based test) Home Edition, conventional iBT at the TOEFL testing center, and the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition.
The test aims at measuring the fundamental English abilities applicable to classrooms.
The TOEFL examination has four parts, which are the following:
TOEFL Listening
TOEFL Reading
TOEFL Writing
TOEFL Speaking
These parts test the English language skills of candidates, assessing their abilities to listen, speak, respond to questions, and write answers. The test requires approximately three hours, although you should allot an additional half an hour per recommendation.
TOEFL Reading Test in Detail
The TOEFL Reading Section has two reading passages, each about 700 words long, and 10 questions based on each text. The Reading part should take around 35 minutes to finish. How you score this part is based on how many correct answers you give for reading comprehension.
Here is a table summarizing the question types, and example phrasing:
Questions Type
Question Phrasing
Factual Information
According to the passage, which of the following is true?
Negative Factual Information
Which of the following is NOT mentioned in the passage?
Inference
What can be inferred from the passage about...?
Rhetorical Purpose
Why does the author mention...?
Vocabulary
The word 'X' in the passage is closest in meaning to
Sentence Simplification
Which of the following best expresses the essential information in the sentence?
Insert Text
Where would the following sentence best fit in the paragraph?
Prose Summary
Select the three statements that best summarize the passage.
The TOEFL reading section question types may vary. Here are some key points to keep in mind about the TOEFL reading comprehension section:
Reading passages are excerpts that are taken from several college or university books.
They are mostly modified to be meaningful to everyone on their own. Editing is, however, minimal in this regard.
Every passage is roughly 700 words long, though individual portions may be smaller or bigger.
ETS has already classified the passages in the section as expository (explaining any specific topic or subject), or argumentative (text advocating any specific opinion with supporting material), or even historical (based on the events of the past).
The passages may have elements like problem/solution, cause/effect, contrast/compare, or classification as their intrinsic organizational elements.
There are eight question types in the Basic Information and Inferencing section. Factual information questions are included in reading passages (three to six for each) and vocabulary-based questions (three to five for each passage). The former requires the identification of facts, and the latter requires choosing the right word or phrase definition in a suitable context.
All passages will come with one to three inference and one to two rhetorical purpose questions, while there will also be one text-based question each.
Inference questions talk about ideas/ or arguments that are implicit, while rhetorical purpose questions ask about the usage of facts, quotations, or any other organization.
Insert text questions necessitate choosing the right placement within the passage. Some passages have negative factual information-based questions (0-2) while containing reference questions as well (0-2).
There are sometimes simplification questions (0-1 in every passage) asked. Students should choose the answer that is not true in the case of negative factual information queries. Reference queries will be about relationships between words in grammatical contexts. Sentence simplification questions will require choosing the answer, which helps in revising and simplifying the sentence.
Reading to Learn questions are of two types: fill in the table and prose summary. Only one question in this segment is expected for every passage. It can be any one of the two types mentioned.
Prose summary queries are about highlighting key ideas and prioritizing them on the basis of their relevance or importance. Fill-in-the-table queries are about contextualizing and organizing ideas from various reading passage portions.
These are some pointers you must remember before appearing for the reading test in TOEFL.
Types of TOEFL Reading Passage
The types of questions in the TOEFL Reading Section are prepared to evaluate the reading and informational abilities of the candidate. The test takers must understand all the question types to solve them effectively.
So, let's understand the different types of questions covered under TOEFL Reading:
1. Factual Information
To answer this question, you must analyze the given information and recognize the details explicitly or as stated facts in the passage. These facts could be in the form of ideas, supporting details, or definitions. Candidates are given four answer choices to choose from. Out of these, they are usually required to pick one answer, or sometimes even two.
2. Negative Factual Information
In negative factual information, you must determine which answer option is 'FALSE.' Four answer options are available: three are true, and one is false.
3. Reading Vocabulary
In reading vocabulary, you are given a word or phrase from the passage for which you must select a similar word from the given options. There will be four answer options, of which you must pick the word closest in meaning to the word or phrase in the question.
12 Weeks of Dedicated Coaching to Build a robust profile for Top 1% Universities
SOP & Personal Statements For Academic Writing
25 hours of live online classes with mock tests for IELTS
Visa, University Application & Submission
Country-specific Support with Education loan Guidance
International Faculty Masterclass
TOEFL Reading Practice Questions
As discussed earlier, the TOEFL reading section consists of two 700 word passages. 10 questions are asked out of each passage. Given below is a sample passage and a few questions related to the same.
Passage: The Evolution of Renewable Energy Sources
The transition towards renewable energy sources, characterized by the shift from fossil fuels to sustainable alternatives, has been a significant development in the global energy landscape over the past few decades. Nations worldwide have been increasingly embracing renewable energy technologies to combat climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and foster energy security. This transition has seen a remarkable increase in the adoption of solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, and biomass energy sources. With a growing awareness of the environmental impacts of traditional energy sources, countries are investing heavily in renewable energy infrastructure and incentivizing their adoption through various policy measures. The rapid growth of the renewable energy sector signifies a paradigm shift in how societies produce and consume energy, paving the way towards a more sustainable future for generations to come. Additionally, the decentralized nature of renewable energy systems offers opportunities for communities to become self-sufficient in energy generation, reducing dependence on centralized power grids and promoting energy independence.
Questions
1. Which renewable energy sources are mentioned in the paragraph as part of the transition away from fossil fuels?
A. Solar, wind, hydroelectric
B. Nuclear, coal, natural gas
C. Oil, biofuels, geothermal
D. Uranium, biomass, tidal
2. What does the adoption of renewable energy sources signify in the context of the global energy transition?
A. An increase in greenhouse gas emissions
B. A shift towards more environmentally sustainable practices
C. A decrease in renewable energy investments
D. A reliance on traditional energy sources
3. How are governments incentivizing the adoption of renewable energy technologies?
A. By imposing higher taxes on renewable energy equipment
B. By reducing subsidies for renewable energy projects
C. By implementing policy measures and financial incentives
D. By limiting access to renewable energy resources
4. What advantages do decentralized renewable energy systems offer to communities?
A. Increased dependence on centralized power grids
B. Reduced energy independence
C. Opportunities for self-sufficiency in energy generation
D. Higher reliance on fossil fuel-powered energy grids
Important Preparation Tips to Improve Your TOEFL Reading Score
Improving your TOEFL Reading Score involves several key preparation strategies:
1. Understand the Format:
Familiarize yourself with the structure of the TOEFL iBT Reading section, which includes two passages of about 700 words each.
2. Practice Regularly:
Take full practice tests to get used to the types of questions and time constraints.
3. Focus on Vocabulary:
Learn the meanings of general academic words and phrases that are commonly used in academic texts.
4. Develop Reading Strategies:
Learn to recognize information directly stated in the text and information that is implied.
5. Use Official Resources:
Utilize official ETS resources like TOEFL iBT Test Prep Planner and TOEFL Talks webinars for insights-driven preparation.
6. Analyze Past Tests:
Review correct answers from past TOEFL tests to understand how questions are scored and to improve your approach.
By following these tips and using official ETS materials, you can enhance your reading comprehension skills and improve your TOEFL Reading Score.
Best Books and Resources for TOEFL
The ETS website offers a comprehensive range of resources for TOEFL preparation. The TOEFL iBT Test Prep Planner is a free, 8-week plan that includes helpful tips, skill-building activities, and sample test questions.
Additionally, TOEFL Talks webinars provide an overview of the test, registration information, and score understanding. For those seeking more in-depth study materials, the Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT® Test and the TOEFL iBT® Test Savings Bundle are highly recommended.
Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT® Test:
The guide is an essential resource for test-takers, providing:
Four full-length practice tests to familiarize yourself with the test format.
Hundreds of real TOEFL iBT test questions and essay topics for comprehensive practice.
Tips and exercises for all four language skills: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
TOEFL Test Collections:
ETS offers various collections to support preparation, including:
Practice tests that cover a broad range of topics and question types.
Skill-building activities aimed at improving specific language proficiency areas.
Sample test questions that mirror the actual TOEFL test's format and difficulty.
These resources are designed to help test-takers achieve their goals by providing accessible formats and personalized insight-driven content.
The Duolingo English test does not require any academic transcripts or certificates for qualification. Anyone willing to assess his/her English language proficiency can take the test from any part of the world.
The Duolingo English test pattern is planned and designed using Data Forensics and Artificial Intelligence technology to maintain the clarity of the test.
Like any certificate, once you receive your result for the Duolingo English Test, validity is for 2 years. The only caveat is that you must retake the exam within this time frame to verify that your English language skills have progressed.
Major UK universities are also opening up to the idea of Duolingo test results to analyze the candidate’s English proficiency. With the rising number of Duolingo accepted universities in UK for 2022, you will find some great options.
Indeed, we have established all the right reasons one should opt for a Duolingo test, but the main question remains unanswered! What are the universities that accept the Duolingo test in Australia?
Aspirants can find out the Duolingo accepted universities in Canada from the list provided below. If students want to enroll in any of the universities in Canada, taking the Duolingo test will be an added advantage.
Duolingo English test registration is a hassle-free procedure. To register for the exam, one needs to click on the 'Take The Test' and fill in all the necessary information.
There is no defined Duolingo English test syllabus as the test assesses you on your existing knowledge of the language. A language fluency test requires your aggregate reading, writing, and grammar skills.
As per the official website, you receive the test results within two days after the exam. So, the Duolingo English test results do not keep you waiting for long.
TOEFL exam registration should be done four months prior to the examination date, as walk-in registrations are not allowed. Photo ID proofs like passports are compulsory while registering.
The TOEFL exam syllabus is divided into four sections–writing, speaking, reading, and listening. Students are required to solve integrated tasks that test various English language skills.
TOEFL exam measures the English language proficiency of individuals willing to study abroad, therefore, there is no specific eligibility criterion that ETS has set for the exam.
It is vital that candidates get an idea of the examination pattern and the entire syllabus in advance. This will help them plan out their study and practice schedules better, enabling the achievement of their coveted TOEFL scores.
The fee for the TOEFL exam in India is slightly higher in comparison to other entrance tests, it is recommended that the aspirants take the test only once or twice.
The TOEFL minimum score is 0 while the TOEFL maximum score is 120. A good average TOEFL score is usually around 78-79 for admissions into leading global universities.
However, international students must prove their English fluency before applying to Canadian schools. One of the globally accepted language proficiency examinations is TOEFL. This article will tell you more about TOEFL accepting universities in Canada.
IELTS is required to be taken by international students and workers who wish to study or work in a country where English is the primary language of communication. Know the complete details.
It becomes necessary for candidates to meet the eligibility for IELTS exam and demonstrate their language proficiency while being assessed on four parameters, namely, Writing, Reading, Speaking and Listening.
The IELTS exam dates are allotted on a first-come and first-serve basis. Choose your date and timings beforehand to avoid the delay. You can register for the test both in online and offline mode.
Fully aware of the growing popularity of the language test, we bring to you a list of IELTS exam centers in India. The list will enable aspirants in better planning before registering for the test.
There are two types of IELTS tests – i) Academic IELTS and ii) General Training IELTS. Candidates are often confused about making the right choice of IELTS test that can meet their requirements regarding their education or job.
Picking the best IELTS books for preparation is essential for scoring well. It may seem tough at first but cracking the examination successfully is not impossible.
Writing task 2 in IELTS is descriptive essay writing. The applicants are supposed to write an essay in response to the statement or situation given in the essay.
Reading is the second part of the IELTS test and takes 60 minutes. It consists of three or sometimes four reading passages to increase difficulty, and there are a total of 40 questions to answer.
Please note that your performance on the speaking test is assessed based on the following criteria- fluency and coherence, grammatical range and accuracy, lexical resource, and pronunciation.
IELTS is one of the most used English Language Proficiency Tests. The exam is scored in bands. Your IELTS band score determines the performance level of your test.
To book the IELTS exam, the candidates can either visit their nearest test center or book the slot online by visiting the official website of IDP. If they choose to go with the second option, they should follow the steps given below.
IELTS Academic writing is meant for students who are applying for top-ranked universities and colleges in English-speaking countries. The writing task one is an academic summary writing based on diagrammatic and graphical representation.
Writing Task 2 is the second part of the writing section of IELTS, where aspirants are presented with a point of view, argument, or problem and asked to write an essay in response to the question.
In IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 starts with a diagram, a visual representation of information. It can be a table, map, graph, process, diagram, or picture.
The essay for IELTS is part of Writing Task 2. It is the same for the General Training and Academic of the IELTS. You will get a topic and have to write an essay on the same.
The IELTS speaking cue cards come into play for the second part when the candidate will be choosing cue cards and then speaking on a topic for two minutes at least.
raduate Record Examination (GRE) is one of the biggest and most popular global tests held by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). It is a standardized examination for entry into courses like MBA, MS, and others at universities worldwide.
Booking GRE exam dates 2023 is a simple procedure. You can register by paying US$213 (approx. INR 15,700) and providing your valid passport copy or relevant ID.
The GRE exam fee in India is around $213 with effect from 1st July 2023. The examination fee in many other countries is $205 while the GRE exam fee for India is the same as countries like Turkey, Australia, China, and Nigeria. The fee for the GRE Subject
GRE is an admission prerequisite at most universities in countries such as the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Singapore. You should have a detailed understanding of the GRE syllabus and its exam pattern before you commit your time.
The organizing body has set no official eligibility requirements in terms of academic qualification. There is no minimum or maximum academic qualification or degree requirement for test-takers.
Wondering how to register for the GMAT exam? You should know that GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is a leading management entrance test that is held throughout the year and aspirants have ample flexibility with regard to taking the examination.
The GMAT exam score is calculated basis a fixed scale and is visible on the GMAT Score Report. Students need to understand the details of their score reports.
The GMAT exam fee in India is US$275, which is approximately ₹21,000. To avoid multiple attempts, it is strongly advised that students prepare thoroughly for the test.
Doing an MBA without GMAT in Canada is possible at some institutions. While most universities look for GRE or GMAT scores, some have different requirements.
Thinking of pursuing an MBA in UK without GMAT? Well, it is possible. The United Kingdom (UK) offers several Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs, including full-time MBA courses and executive MBA programs.
The PTE exam pattern is designed to test whether candidates can study at international institutions that have English as the main language for instructions.
Canada is a country that is renowned for the quality of its educational infrastructure. As a result, it is no surprise that a list of PTE accepted universities in Canada is sought-after.
The SAT exam dates fall on Saturdays and the test is generally conducted on 7 Saturdays every year; the deadline for registration is four weeks prior to the date of the test.
According to the latest update on SAT syllabus 2022, SAT Subject Tests and the SAT optional essays have been discontinued which has now reduced the duration of the exam by 50 minutes.
Understanding the SAT exam pattern is of paramount importance for all those who want to study undergraduate courses from universities or colleges abroad.
The College Board India Scholars Program offers the SAT scholarship for Indian students. This scholarship helps students receive education from renowned institutes worldwide.
How to register for the SAT examination? Stay assured that the procedure is not at all complex. Students desirous of obtaining admission into bachelor’s or undergraduate courses in the US or Canada will find this to be an important examination.
It is very important for ACT aspirants to be aware of the complete ACT exam syllabus, as it will help them to avoid any surprises on the day of the examination.
The ACT is a widely accepted and standardized examination in the U.S. and several other countries. It is used majorly for undergraduate admissions into several colleges and universities.
Registration of the ACT examination is done through the official website online. Applicants need to register for the test at least two months before the test date.
The American College Testing– ACT score is a part of the college applications in the United States of America (USA), depending on the institution students apply to. There are no fixed passing marks for this examination.
Carefully curated list of the top SAT prep material can prove invaluable to reducing aspirants' efforts. So, to simplify your research, here are 10 SAT exam books to consider for thorough preparation.
The TOEFL reading section has 20 questions, i.e. around 10 for every passage. You will have 2 passages in all. The score is usually between 1-30 points and is shown on the report. This is the scaled reading score.
How do I improve the reading section on TOEFL?
You should improve your vocabulary by studying more academic words and carefully reviewing the glossary list.
Use your skills to scan for the passage's core idea and quickly pick up key numbers, facts, and figures.
Balance your reading and question-answering in the section while maintaining a good time.
How do I answer TOEFL reading questions?
You have to quickly pick up the type of question and find the core idea and keywords in the passage.
You will have to eliminate the choices not linked to the main topic sentence.
Eliminate choices that are like non-relevant details, and keep scanning the main topic sentences while answering.
How to do I get a high score in TOEFL reading?
You have to read as much as you can for at least 20-30 minutes each day.
You should read newspapers, books, and periodicals, along with magazines.
You should also engage in what is known as passive reading, where you read English texts only for your own purpose without any objectives of learning at that moment.
Improve and build your vocabulary. You should also enhance your reading speed with proper practice.
How many reading passages are in TOEFL iBT?
The TOEFL iBT reading section contains 3-4 passages in all. They will have about 10 questions each. You can answer them in 54-72 minutes and they are roughly 700 words each as well.
How long is the TOEFL reading section?
It will take you roughly 35 minutes all the reading section questions. There are 20 questions asked in the section.
How many questions are in the TOEFL reading section?
There are 20 questions (Around 10 questions for every passage) in the TOEFL reading test. You will have to answer two passages in all.
She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them with relevant content and information through upGrad Abroad. Amateur traveller, loves to read Architectural Digest!
GPA CALCULATOR
EXPENSE CALCULATOR
Ielts band calculator
Education Loan Calculator
University partner
ACCOMMODATION
experience-center
our offices
)
