My TOEFL Experience & Tips – Scoring 108/120

1. Exam Date & Location:

   • Took TOEFL on January 9, 2021.

   • Test center: AvaTalk Language Institution, Urmia (2 hours from Tabriz).

2. My TOEFL Scores:

   • Reading: 28/30

   • Listening: 29/30

   • Speaking: 25/30

   • Writing: 26/30

   • Total: 108/120

3. Challenges Due to COVID-19:

   • Third attempt due to exam cancellations.

   • Iran was excluded from the home-based TOEFL version.

   • Health protocols were in place (masks required during the test).

4. Overall Experience:

   • Informative and enjoyable.

   • Inspired me to share my preparation tips and learnings.

Key Takeaways & Preparation Tips

1. Critical Thinking Matters

• TOEFL tests both expressing ideas and understanding information.

• Pay attention to why a speaker/writer uses certain words or phrases.

• Develop structured responses in speaking/writing.

• If TOEFL were translated into one’s native language, scores wouldn’t be significantly different—it’s all about logical thinking.

2. The Importance of Mock Exams

• TOEFL lasts over 3 hours—focus is key.

• Get used to the test format and timing.

• Use official ETS materials and other online resources.

• Avoid overusing pre-made speaking templates—they sound robotic.

• Practicing mock tests helps manage stress and energy levels.

3. Grammar Reference is a Must

• Even fluent speakers have gaps in grammar.

• Recommended book: Understanding and Using English Grammar by Betty Schrampfer Azar.

• A grammar book is best used as a reference rather than for cover-to-cover reading.

4. Language Immersion Techniques

a) Listening to Music:

• Music with repetitive lyrics helps vocabulary retention.

• Choose songs that you genuinely enjoy.

b) Watching TV Series & Movies:

• Use English subtitles first, then add native language if needed.

• Best player for dual subtitles: Potplayer.

• Adult cartoons are great for learning (e.g., Futurama, The Simpsons, South Park).

c) Learning Online in English:

• Follow online courses or read articles in English.

• Learning a new topic in English improves comprehension skills.

d) Flashcards & Dictionary Apps:

• Use dictionary apps to check new words immediately.

• Spaced repetition apps (like Anki or WordUp) help memorize words long-term.

• Power Thesaurus is useful for writing and speaking.

5. Writing & Speaking Enhancement Tools

• Grammarly: Improves sentence structure and word choice.

• WordUp: AI-powered dictionary and vocabulary learning app.

• Power Thesaurus: Helps find synonyms and antonyms.

• AnkiApp: Custom flashcards for vocabulary review.

6. Speaking & Practicing English with Others

• Language exchange apps can be useful but sometimes feel shallow.

• Try switching to English in conversations with close friends—it feels awkward at first but becomes natural.

7. Learning a New Language While Studying for TOEFL

• Learning a second foreign language (e.g., German, French, Spanish) while studying for TOEFL can strengthen English skills.

• Helps in understanding grammar structures and cognates (similar words across languages).

• Duolingo is a great tool for this purpose.

Final Thoughts

• TOEFL preparation enhances critical thinking, stress management, and time management.

• Success in TOEFL isn’t just about the score—it’s about improving skills that benefit everyday life.

• Enjoy the journey and don’t stress too much about the results! 🚀

Shared by Aslan Noorghasemi