How to Write a Good TOEFL iBT® Integrated Essay?

In the TOEFL Integrated Essay task, you will first read a brief academic passage (250-300 words) and then listen to a related lecture (2-3 minutes). Your objective is to integrate and synthesize information from both sources to write a clear and concise essay (150-225 words) within 20 minutes. The key is to effectively combine and explain how the listening passage supports or challenges the information presented in the reading passage. This guide will help you understand and excel in writing a successful TOEFL Integrated Essay.

Structure of TOEFL Integrated Essay

A well-structured TOEFL Integrated Essay typically follows this format:

Also Check: How to Write High-Scoring TOEFL Essays: Expert Tips and Strategies

How to Write a Good TOEFL Integrated Essay?

Here are 10 effective expert tips on how to write a good TOEFL-integrated essay:

1. Take Effective Notes 

As you go through the reading and listening test, keep noting down the main points and supporting details. You could use abbreviations and symbols in order to save time.

Example: For the passage on Jenny, a girl in love with traveling, you will note something like: Jenny's travel interests: 1) adventure 2) cultural experiences 3) relaxation.

2. Identify the Relationship Between the Passage and the Lecture 

Determine whether the lecture supports, challenges or adds to the reading passage. This relationship will form the basis of your essay.

Example: If the lecture argues that Jenny's preference for cultural experiences leads to less relaxation, note: Lec ≠ Reading: 1) adventure reduces stress and 2) cultural experiences are overwhelming.

3. Create a Clear Thesis Statement

Your thesis is one sentence that summarizes the reading's main idea and the lecture's relationship to that idea.

Example: Whereas the reading passage presents Jenny's balanced approach to travel with adventure, cultural experiences, and relaxation, the lecture indicates that Jenny's prioritizing of her cultural experiences might impact her need for relaxation.

4. Use Transitional Phrases 

Employ phrases that clearly show the relationship between ideas from the reading and lecture. 

Examples:

• In contrast to the reading passage...
• The lecturer supports this point by...
• However, the speaker argues that...

5. Paraphrase, Don’t Copy 

Information from both sources should be paraphrased in your own words. That reflects your ability with the language, too, and also suggests a better grasp of the material. 

Example:

Original: Jenny likes to combine some adventure with relaxation in her trips.

Paraphrase: The reading explains that Jenny seeks both excitement and downtime while travelling.

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6. Balance Information from Both Sources

Pay the same attention to the reading and the lecture. Do not put too much emphasis on one.

Example structure: The reading passage states that Jenny likes to do a mix of activities that she enjoys when taking trips. Conversely, the professor describes how an emphasis on cultural activities can take some of her time for over-relaxation.

7. Use Specific Examples 

Include concrete details from both the reading and the listening to support your points.

Example: The lecturer brings in a case where Jenny's itinerary was over-inclusive of the cultural tours, leaving her with less time to spend on relaxation, as opposed to what was brought forth in the reading of a balanced approach.

8. Maintain a Neutral Tone

Present information objectively without inserting your own opinions or additional outside knowledge. 

Example: 

Instead of: I think Jenny should focus more on relaxation,
Write: The lecture presents evidence suggesting that an emphasis on cultural activities may limit Jenny’s opportunity for relaxation.

9. Manage Your Time Effectively 

Allocate your 20 minutes wisely for the TOEFL integrated essay.

Example: 

• 2-3 minutes for planning
• 15-16 minutes for writing
• 1-2 minutes for reviewing

10. Proofread Your Essay

Finally, at the last minute, do a quick scan to make sure you don't have any glaring mistakes in grammar, spelling or clarity. For Instance: Check that you have used the same tense throughout and that your subject and verb numbers agree.

Applying these tips will help you effectively integrate and present information from both reading and listening passages in your TOEFL Integrated Essay. With clear note-taking, balanced analysis, and concise writing, you can enhance your essay and boost your test performance.

Also Read: 

• How to Send Your TOEFL iBT® Scores to Colleges?
• Top 5 Hacks to Crack TOEFL iBT® Exam in First Attempt
• 10 Common TOEFL Mistakes You Must Avoid
• Essential Grammar Rules and Tips for TOEFL iBT® Exam