Build a Sentence
Arrange words or phrases into a complete grammatical sentence or question, demonstrating control of English sentence structure.
Updated TOEFL iBT section
TOEFL iBT Writing
Build a Sentence, Write an Email, and Write for an Academic Discussion; ETS lists about 12 items and about 23 minutes base time.
Current focus
- Sentence controlAvailable for diagnostics and practice.
- Email writingAligned to the updated task design.
- Academic discussion responseCan feed later Pathway routing.
Section overview
Start with what this section measures
The guidance below follows the TOEFL iBT design effective January 21, 2026 and explains the tasks, test-day experience, score use and preparation for this section.
Sentence control
Used for targeted practice under the updated format.
Email writing
Handled cautiously against current ETS information.
Academic discussion response
Can connect to mock tests and Pathway support.
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Format and tasks
Writing tasks in detail
These are the task types in the current ETS TOEFL iBT design. Item totals and base time may vary as the test adapts.
Write an Email
Write for a clear academic or social purpose, such as requesting information, explaining a situation or proposing a solution.
Academic Discussion
Add a relevant, supported contribution to an online class discussion and respond appropriately to the viewpoints already presented.
Candidate experience
What happens on test day
Understand the sequence, equipment and response conditions for the complete test, not only the isolated task type.
Section order
A complete test runs Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking in that order. At least one response in every section is required for scores to be reported.
Delivery options
The test is computer-delivered at an authorized test centre; eligible test takers may also use the live-proctored Home Edition.
Test-day experience
Allow about two hours with no scheduled break. Note-taking follows ETS rules; Speaking is recorded by microphone and Writing is typed.
Scoring and results
How results are reported and used
The 1–6 score scale applies from January 21, 2026. Candidates should check both current ETS guidance and the receiving institution’s own requirement.
Current score scale
Each section and the overall result use a 1–6 scale in half-point increments; the overall result is based on the four-section average.
Getting results
ETS currently says scores enter the test taker’s account three days after the test date; official delivery timing also depends on the recipient.
Using a score
Institutions set their own minimums. During transition the report also supplies a comparable legacy overall estimate, so candidates need not convert it themselves.
Preparation
Prepare for the current task design
Start with official examples and the purpose of each task, then classify errors by comprehension, language control, timing and task fulfilment.
Control sentences first
Build accurate clauses and questions before trying to make email or discussion responses more complex.
Write to purpose and reader
For emails, make the requested action clear; for discussions, state a position and support it with relevant development.
Practise by keyboard
Type timed responses and reserve a short final check for meaning, grammar and missing information.
Official ETS sources
Task design, scoring, score timing and test policies can change. Use current ETS pages for registration and preparation decisions.