Writing for the Win – TOEFL Writing Tips That Work
Struggling with TOEFL writing? This guide gives you the strategies you need to write better essays, from outlining ideas to mastering transitions. Whether it’s the integrated or independent task, we’ll show you how to stay focused and write with confidence.
TOEFL
Adi English
5/19/20251 min read
Writing for the Win – TOEFL Writing Tips That Work
Let’s face it: writing under pressure is hard. But writing in another language, on a timer, with academic topics? That’s next-level stress.
The TOEFL Writing section has two parts:
Task 1: Integrated Essay – Read a passage, listen to a lecture, and write a response.
Task 2: Independent Essay – Write your opinion about a question.
Each has different strategies, but both can be conquered with a little planning (and less panic).
1. Understand the Structure
Don’t try to be Shakespeare. TOEFL wants clarity and structure.
For Task 1 (Integrated):
Intro: Summarize the topic
Body 1: Lecture contradicts reading (point 1)
Body 2: Lecture contradicts reading (point 2)
Body 3: Lecture contradicts reading (point 3)
No opinion needed!
For Task 2 (Independent):
Intro: State your opinion clearly
Body 1: Reason + example
Body 2: Reason + example
Conclusion: Paraphrase your opinion
2. Keep It Simple
Use vocabulary you’re comfortable with. TOEFL rewards clarity, not fancy words. Use linking phrases like:
“One reason is…”
“For instance…”
“In contrast…”
Avoid long, confusing sentences. You’re not writing a novel.
3. Practice with a Timer
You have 20 minutes for Task 1 and 30 minutes for Task 2. Practice writing with a timer so you don’t panic on test day. Even 1-2 practice essays a week will help!
4. Review Sample Essays
Reading good examples helps you understand tone, style, and organization. Try rewriting them in your own words to practice.
5. Edit (If You Have Time)
Leave 2–3 minutes to fix typos, add a transition, or correct grammar. Small changes can make a big difference in clarity.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to be a writing genius to ace this section. Just keep it simple, structured, and on topic. The more you practice, the more natural it will feel.