How to Overcome Writer’s Block During TOEFL Writing

One of the most common challenges which many test-takers face is the writer’s block. This usually happens during high-pressure situations in the TOEFL exam as this segment could seem difficult at first. There could be situations for many test takers who can become anxious with the idea of writing an essay on the spot. As a result, one might not have enough ideas, leading to frustration. However, if you incorporate the right strategies, your mindset will be focused and you can overcome writer’s block during the TOEFL Writing section. 

In this blog, there would be several tips which will effectively help you push through writer’s block and complete your TOEFL Writing tasks by becoming confident.

Understand the TOEFL Writing Section

Understanding the TOEFL Writing Section It is crucial to understand the structure of the TOEFL Writing Section so that you are familiar with the format before diving into strategies. There are two tasks in the TOEFL Writing Section which is as follows: 

• The first one is an Integrated Writing Task where you have to read a passage after which you will listen to a lecture, and finally write a response based on the information you got from both of these sources. Your task is to synthesize the information by demonstrating your ability and skills to summarise. 

• The second writing task is an Independent Writing Task where you would write an essay in response to the prompt asked about a topic where you would express and justify your opinion. In this section, you would be assessed based on your organising skills while developing an argument. 

However, in both the tasks, you need to provide clear, concise, and well-organised writing answers. It is common to experience writer’s block where you might find yourself struggling to even start, but don’t worry! There are several methods and strategies to help you move forward if you consistently work towards it.

Effective Strategies to Overcome Writer’s Block During TOEFL Writing

Remember that consistent practice is the key which will help you brainstorm ideas to effectively attempt the writing tasks. Below are some of the strategies which you can incorporate into your preparation to deal with the writer’s block during TOEFL Writing.

1. Break Down The Task

One of the main reasons to have a writer’s block is due to the overwhelming feeling which test takers get in the exam. By breaking down the tasks into steps, it will become more manageable and easier to write. The table below shows an effective way to break the questions down for both the Writing Tasks.

Once you have broken the tasks down, you would be able to start with the easy section. In the Integrated Writing Task, you can begin by summarising the lecture and analysing the main ideas from the reading passage. This will create a coherent answer since you have outlined the key points. Moving on to the Independent Writing Task,  you can begin by writing the body paragraphs first and don’t think about the introduction as well as conclusion initially. This will help you gradually build your argument and later, you can formulate the introduction and conclusion once you are done with the body paragraphs.

2. Practice Writing With Shorter Breaks

When you write freely without any constraints, it will help you develop your skills since you are not focusing too much on grammar, punctuation, or structure. In this way, the main goal is to develop the skills to generate ideas and get your thoughts flowing without thinking too much. While attempting the TOEFL Writing tasks, you can take around 5-10 minutes to write freely without any structure if you feel overwhelmed. Not only that but you can also take a short break to clear your mind and reduce anxiety by taking a few deep breaths, standing up, stretching, or drinking water.

Remember that the fear could be due to the time boundation and the structure of the answer which you need to follow. As a result, you need to practice to release the pressure and get your brain to think creatively, making you feel more comfortable with writing.

3. Focus on Quality

In the Writing tasks, it is not mandatory to write a lengthy answer to score well. Since quality matters more than quantity, focus on expressing your ideas in a concise and logical way rather than writing a long response. The main aim is to provide clear, concise, and well-developed paragraphs. There is no need to write irrelevant answer and remember to not move away from the main idea which could affect your scores.

To keep the logical arrangement of ideas, use transition words which are listed below in the table.

4. Time Management

A writer’s block can cause anxiety due to the time constraints as candidates have to finish their response at the given time. Firstly, focus on brainstorming ideas and make notes regarding the same and then, use a timer while attempting the practice tests. It is not advisable to stop at the given first if you are trying for the first time. When you are using a timer, keep a track of the extra time which you require to attempt the TOEFL Writing tests and then check with the progress. 

To begin with developing those skills, you can start with a longer time limit to avoid any anxiety and confusion while practising. As and when you continue to prepare with practice tests, you can gradually reduce the time limit given the fact that you have improved your speed and efficiency. Therefore, it will help you simulate exam conditions and improve your time management skills.

5. Stay Positive and Avoid Negative Self-talk

A writer’s block becomes more intense when you start doubting yourself, making your brain shut down and it becomes difficult for you to get ideas. You can start by staying positive and focusing on moving forward by taking one step at a time which can create a calm mindset. If you feel stuck, remember to take a break and remind yourself that you’ve prepared for this moment.

The more you practice, the more confident you become at handling challenging prompts. It is true that a writer’s block can be very frustrating but with the right mindset and strategies, you can overcome it and become more confident.