TOEFL Study Plans
Structured preparation routes for the TOEFL iBT. Choose a plan based on your timeframe and distance from your target score.
Overview
Study plans should cover all four sections. Match your plan length to your available time and how far you are from your target score. A baseline full practice test helps identify weak areas and set priorities. Use official ETS materials where possible for authentic format and scoring.
Typical structure
A typical plan includes:
- Baseline full practice test under timed conditions
- Section-by-section review: format, question types, and task demands
- Focused practice on weak areas (e.g. inference questions, integrated writing, speaking synthesis)
- Full timed tests under exam conditions to build stamina and pacing
- Light taper before test day: minimal new content, light review and rest
Plan length
Four to six weeks works for candidates close to their target score who need format familiarity and targeted practice. Eight to twelve weeks allows more room for vocabulary consolidation, grammar review, and repeated full tests. Longer plans are useful when multiple sections need improvement or when study time per week is limited.
Integrated skills
Integrated tasks in Speaking and Writing require synthesising reading and listening input. Practice taking notes during lectures and conversations, then using those notes to produce coherent spoken or written responses. Weak listening notes often lead to weak integration. Build note-taking systems that work for you before relying on them under time pressure.
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