Timothy K. answered • 03/27/19
TOEFL & SAT Expert - Published Author, Curriculum Creator
Something I always suggest to students is that they should take a look at the TOEFL test order. Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing. First, learn to read TOEFL level passages and write down tough vocabulary. Flash cards (paper or digital) are great tools. While learning these words, try saying them out loud to learn how they sound. This will help since a lot of the vocab from reading is what you'll hear in the Listening section. Practice note-taking for listening. Reading and Listening have definite correct answers which means having a good book will help a lot.
Speaking section will score you on how comfortable you sound while speaking. Practicing saying words out loud while learning reading vocabulary not only helps with listening, but will also help you here. This is important because a lot of students seem to think that you only get perfect scores when you fill all of the time for speaking. (This is a major misconception) In Writing, reading sample essays is always a big help. Also, it's important to note that you don't have to write the standard 5-paragraph essay. Just one intro and two body paragraphs is still good enough to get a solid 5 in the independent essay.
There are many ways to prepare for TOEFL, if it makes sense to you, then it's the way that'll work for you. Good luck :)
