Power Words to Improve Your TOEFL iBT® Writing Score

"Use power words to make your TOEFL Writing more effective. Improve clarity, structure, and tone with impactful vocabulary and transitions."
Key Highlights
If you want to write a high-scoring TOEFL essay, the words you use matter as much as your ideas. Power words can turn a simple sentence into an impactful one and leave a strong impression on examiners. These are strong, expressive words that help you write clearly, logically, and persuasively. Mastering them will not only boost your vocabulary but also your confidence and writing fluency. Let’s explore how to use these power words effectively.
Want to achieve your desired writing score on the TOEFL? |
Power Words to Improve Your TOEFL Writing Score
Here are the most useful power words that can enhance your TOEFL Writing responses and make them more academic, formal, and persuasive.
1. Transition Words to Show Relationships
These words link ideas, helping you create a logical flow in your writing.
Purpose |
Sample Power Words |
Sample Usage |
Adding information |
furthermore, moreover, in addition |
Furthermore, education helps reduce poverty. |
Showing contrast |
however, although, on the other hand |
However, not all students benefit equally. |
Showing result |
therefore, as a result, thus |
As a result, the plan failed. |
Giving examples |
for example, for instance, such as |
For instance, online classes help working adults. |
Emphasising a point |
indeed, in fact, above all |
Above all, health should be prioritised. |
2. Academic Vocabulary for Clear Arguments
These words make your argument more formal and precise.
Type |
Power Words |
Sample Usage |
Argument words |
suggest, claim, argue, believe |
Many researchers argue that social media affects focus. |
Support words |
evidence, research, data, findings |
The findings support the idea that sleep boosts memory. |
Conclusion words |
conclude, result, indicate, show |
The data indicates a rise in online education. |
3. Adjectives to Strengthen Descriptions
These adjectives add weight and clarity to your points.
Topic |
Power Words |
Sample Usage |
Education |
effective, essential, beneficial |
Education is essential for economic growth. |
Environment |
harmful, sustainable, clean |
Clean energy is a sustainable choice. |
Society |
equal, fair, supportive |
A fair society gives everyone a voice. |
4. Verbs That Add Precision and Impact
Here are strong verbs to avoid vague expressions like "do" or "make."
Weak Verb |
Power Verb |
Sample Usage |
do a study |
conduct |
Scientists conducted a study on pollution. |
make a change |
implement |
The government implemented new laws. |
get better |
improve |
Her scores improved after practice. |
5. Power Words to Express Opinions and Comparisons
Here are useful words when you are stating your viewpoint or comparing two sides.
Function |
Power Words |
Sample Usage |
Giving opinion |
personally, I believe, in my view |
Personally, I believe technology has improved education. |
Comparing |
similarly, likewise, in contrast |
In contrast, traditional methods lack flexibility. |
Balancing ideas |
while, whereas, although |
While city life is fast-paced, rural areas offer peace. |
You might find this helpful: 100 Essential Words for TOEFL Vocabulary Word List |
Step-by-Step Method to Use Power Words
Follow this method when writing your TOEFL essay to include power words effectively.
Step |
What to Do |
Example |
1. Understand the topic |
Read and analyse what the question asks. |
"Do you agree or disagree with online education?" |
2. Plan your essay |
Write a quick outline with 2 to 3 main ideas. |
Agree: Flexible, cost-effective, accessible |
3. Choose power words |
Pick strong words that fit your points. |
Use "accessible" instead of "easy to get" |
4. Write and revise |
Add transition words and check vocabulary. |
"In addition, it is cost-effective." |
5. Final check |
Ensure all points are clear and well-connected. |
Use "as a result," "moreover," "thus" properly |
TOEFL Sample Paragraphs Using Power Words
Here are two short model paragraphs from different topics using power words correctly:
Topic 1: Environment
Sustainable energy sources are essential to reduce environmental damage. For instance, solar and wind energy produce clean power without emitting harmful gases. Moreover, these methods are increasingly cost-effective and widely available. As a result, governments should implement policies that promote their use. Above all, shifting to sustainable energy is necessary for a cleaner and healthier future.
Topic 2: Technology in Education
Modern technology has transformed education in many beneficial ways. Online platforms, for example, offer students flexible learning options. Furthermore, digital tools such as interactive quizzes and virtual simulations make learning more engaging. Research shows that technology enhances student motivation and improves outcomes. Therefore, investing in digital education is a smart and effective decision.
Topic 3: Health and Lifestyle
Healthy eating is essential for maintaining physical and mental well-being. In fact, research shows that balanced diets can prevent lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and heart problems. Moreover, healthy meals improve concentration and energy levels. Therefore, individuals should adopt sustainable eating habits and governments must promote nutrition education. Above all, a healthy society leads to a productive future.
I hope this blog on power words to improve your TOEFL writing score helped you. Try using these words in your next essay to see real results. With regular practice, you’ll find your writing improving steadily. Keep refining your skills, and you’ll be on your way to a higher score. Good luck with your TOEFL preparation.
Additional Resources:
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