Understanding the Structure and Format of the TOEFL iBT

Part of what makes tests like the TOEFL iBT scary is that they are unknown. Even if you are used to taking standardized or multiple choice tests, you have probably never seen a test like the TOEFL iBT before. That's because unlike most tests that you've taken in school, the TOEFL iBT tests language skills, not knowledge. The TOEFL iBT is designed to measure your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English in an academic setting. However, the TOEFL iBT also directly measures your test taking skills. Believe it or not, some native English speakers would not score well on the TOEFL iBT if they did not understand the structure and format of the test.

In order to do well on the TOEFL iBT, you must be able to apply your English language skills to the types of questions that appear on the test. Mastering the structure and format of the test is essential for TOEFL iBT success, and the best way to develop TOEFL iBT mastery is through structured and guided practice. That's why every inlingua Test Preparation course features extensive diagnostic and practice testing. Because the more familiar you are with the way the TOEFL iBT works, the more relaxed and confident you will be on test day. And the more confident you feel on test day, the better you are likely to perform on the TOEFL iBT.

Time and Section Management

Another key to succeeding on the TOEFL iBT is managing your time and each section the right way. Unfortunately, many test takers ruin their TOEFL iBT score because they run out of time and fail to finish one or more sections. After all, writing a great introduction to your essay doesn't help very much if you run out of time before beginning the second paragraph. Remember, in order to get a good score on the TOEFL, you don't need to answer all of the questions correctly. If you encounter a question that you just don't understand or are unsure of, don't obsess on it and waste valuable time that would be better spent on questions that are easier for you. For difficult test questions that you just aren't sure about, eliminate as many wrong answer choices as you can, guess among the remaining choices, and move on.

Being Refreshed on Test Day

One final key to succeeding on the TOEFL iBT is being refreshed and mentally ready on test day. Think you should spend the night before the test practicing just one more essay? Think again! Experience has shown that studying the night before the test has little positive effect on your final score—if you have already taken the time to adequately prepare for the test. After completing a thorough inlingua TOEFL iBT course, you will be more than ready to tackle the TOEFL iBT on Test Day. Your best bet is to relax the day before the test, get a great night's sleep, and apply the skills and strategies you've learned in your course to conquer the TOEFL iBT and get the score you need for TOEFL iBT—and English—success.