Maximizing TOEFL iBT® Scores with Advanced Paraphrasing

If you're aiming for a higher TOEFL score, mastering advanced paraphrasing for TOEFL can make a real difference. Whether you're writing essays or speaking in response to a prompt, your ability to restate ideas clearly shows strong command over language. Effective TOEFL paraphrasing demonstrates vocabulary range, clarity, and academic tone, all of which play a key role in scoring well. Many students focus heavily on grammar and structure but often miss out on the impact of solid paraphrasing techniques TOEFL tasks demand. Let’s explore how sharpening this one skill can help you maximize your TOEFL score with more confidence.

Maximizing TOEFL Scores with Advanced Paraphrasing

Here are the tips to improve your paraphrasing skills and maximize your TOEFL score with greater precision and fluency: 

1. Understand the Core Meaning Before You Paraphrase: 

Before you try to rephrase a sentence, make sure you fully understand what it means. Misinterpreting the original idea is one of the most common paraphrasing mistakes in TOEFL.

Example:

• Original: “The increase in global temperatures has led to more frequent natural disasters.”
• Poor paraphrase: “Global warming is causing a lot of damage.” (Too vague and changes the focus)
• Strong paraphrase: “Rising global temperatures have resulted in a higher occurrence of natural disasters.”

Tip: Focus on retaining the idea, not just changing the words.

2. Use Synonyms Thoughtfully: 

A basic paraphrasing technique is to swap words with their synonyms, but it only works when the synonym fits the tone and context. TOEFL scorers look for vocabulary accuracy and range, so incorrect word choices can lower your score.

Example:

• Original: “Many students struggle with time management during exams.”
• Effective paraphrase: “Numerous students find it difficult to manage their time in exams.”

Tip: Don’t replace every word. Use synonyms for key terms, but keep the sentence natural and grammatically correct.

3. Change Sentence Structure: 

One of the most effective paraphrasing techniques TOEFL tasks reward is sentence transformation. You can switch active to passive voice, combine ideas, or shift the order of clauses to create variety in your writing or speech.

Example:

• Original: “Scientists discovered a new species in the Amazon rainforest.”
• Paraphrase: “A new species was discovered by scientists in the Amazon rainforest.”
  Another version: “In the Amazon rainforest, scientists have identified a newly found species.”

Tip: Varying your structure makes your language sound more academic and less repetitive.

4. Use Word Forms Correctly: 

A more advanced way to paraphrase is by changing the form of a word, such as turning a noun into a verb or an adjective into an adverb. This shows greater flexibility with vocabulary.

Example:

• Original: “The solution was effective.”
• Paraphrase: “The solution worked effectively.”
• Another version: “It was an effective way to solve the problem.”

Tip: This method is especially useful in the TOEFL writing section, where variety in grammar and vocabulary contributes to higher scores.

5. Combine and Split Sentences Strategically: 

Sometimes it’s helpful to combine shorter sentences into one, or break a long sentence into two to improve clarity and flow. This also helps show your command over sentence variety.

Example:

• Original: “Pollution has increased. It is caused by industrial activities.”
• Paraphrase: “Industrial activities have led to a rise in pollution.”
• Split version: “Pollution is rising. One major cause is industrial production.”

Tip: Don’t overuse long sentences. Balance is key for readability and flow.

6. Avoid Overusing Template Phrases: 

Some students rely on fixed expressions like “It is said that…” or “People think that…” These are safe, but using them repeatedly sounds mechanical. TOEFL rewards natural academic English, not memorized patterns.

Example:

• Instead of: “It is said that technology has changed the world,”
• Try: “Technology has significantly transformed modern life.”

Tip: Replace template phrases with more direct and specific language.

7. Practice with TOEFL-Style Texts: 

To improve TOEFL paraphrasing, read academic articles, sample essays, and high-scoring speaking responses. Practice restating each sentence in your own words. Use sources like National Geographic, Scientific American, or TOEFL practice materials to expose yourself to formal structures and vocabulary.

Tip: After paraphrasing, compare your version with the original. Ask yourself: Did I change enough while keeping the meaning? This self-review builds paraphrasing accuracy over time.

8. Keep Meaning First, Not Fancy Words: 

Many test-takers try to sound advanced by using complex or rare vocabulary. However, using difficult words incorrectly can lead to confusion and loss of meaning. Paraphrasing should focus on clarity, not just sounding “smart.”

Example:

• Original: “The economy is growing steadily.”
• Risky paraphrase: “The financial condition is exhibiting a consistent augmentation.” (Unnatural and awkward)
• Better version: “Economic growth has been stable in recent months.”

Tip: Choose words that fit the academic tone but are still accurate and natural.

Paraphrasing is one of the most powerful skills you can develop for TOEFL success. It not only improves clarity in your responses but also builds confidence during the test. With consistent practice and smart strategies, you can turn average answers into strong ones and significantly boost your overall score.

Additional Resources:

• How to Keep Up with Fast Speakers in TOEFL Listening Tasks
• Balancing TOEFL Preparation with a Busy Schedule
• 10 Useful Topics to Practice TOEFL English Speaking Skills
• How to Overcome Fear of Speaking English in Public
• Why Non-Verbal Communication is Important in English Speaking Skills
• 10 Useful Topics to Practice TOEFL English Speaking Skills