Learning to write well is skill that can be cultivated with practice. Good writing skills are essential to score well on the TOEFL test. The TOEFL writing section consists of two parts:

Integrated writing

This section requires you to read, listen and then write a summary of at least 250 words in 20 minutes.

Independent writing

It involves writing an essay of 300 – 350 words in about 30 minutes. Here are certain tips to score well on the independent writing section of the iBT.

Good writing skills need to be cultivated with practice. Try to write an essay a day. While writing, keep an eye on the watch. Remember that you will get only about 30 minutes to write your TOEFL essay. Most test takers can write a good essay, but they need lots of time. If you are one among them, you require special practice.

Improve your vocabulary

Learn synonyms. A good knowledge of synonyms is essential to paraphrase the question. If you rewrite the question as it is, it could affect your score. What’s more, the examiner is unlikely to count those words.

Read the question carefully. You must first know what exactly you are required to write. Once you have got a clear idea of the subject, think over it. Start writing only after you have collected enough material.

Use varied sentence patterns

Don’t stick to just one tense or sentence pattern. Use a variety of sentence patterns. They will afford variety to the mind as well as the eye. Of course, you can write short and simple sentences. But if your sentences are too simple, your examiner will not be too happy with you. So write long, complex sentences as well. Just make sure that they are grammatically correct.

Start with a simple, strong introduction

Your introduction is the first thing that catches the examiner’s eye. If it is impressive, you have won half the battle.

Your essay should consist of four or five paragraphs. The paragraphs should be arranged in such a way that they allow the logical flow of ideas.

Learn linking words

There are plenty of them in English. By using appropriate linking words, you can ensure the neat flow of ideas from one sentence to the next.

Once you have finished writing, revise it. There may be grammatical or spelling errors. Remember that silly grammar mistakes are more harmful than complex ones. The good news is that they are easy to spot. You just need to read your essay, and they will gaze at your face.

Write a good conclusion that answers the entire question.