TOEFL Writing

• I was able to improve my score to some extent on my Second attempt at TOEFL exam.
• Possible reasons for the improvement:
  • I was conscious of presenting my English proficiency in a clear and understandable way.
    • Ten Awesome Tips for the Writing Section of the TOEFL® Test - TST Prep

      • Tip #3 – Paraphrase the passages. One of the grading criteria on the TOEFL is vocabulary, and you will earn zero points if you simply quote the material.

        • I aimed to have a rich vocabulary.

      • Tip #4 – Use lots of transitional words and phrases. They will help you develop your essay and connect your ideas.

        • I aimed to showcase my ability to use transitional words and phrases.
    • I also used various grammatical structures (sentence variety).
    • Rhetorical expressions and idiomatic expressions seemed effective as well.
  • I was conscious of using PEEL.
    • I often forget to include the Link part.
    • If the Link is clearly present, it would give the impression that I am using PEEL.
  • After doing one TOEFL Writing Practice, I checked for elements in the model answer that I didn’t have.
    • I only did this once, but I feel like it was quite helpful.

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• Integrated:

  • Aim to thoroughly understand the structure of the argument.
  • It seems better to write the Introduction later.
    • Instead of spending time on the introductory sentence, it is better to focus on understanding the structure itself.
    • I think there will be a clear structure.

• Do not write more than what is asked in the question.

  • If asked to summarize the Lecture, do not summarize the Reading.
  • Make the necessary parts more substantial.

• Writing:

  • Write in an academic manner.
  • It is better to avoid repeating the same expressions.