Tips to Handle Unexpected Questions in TOEFL iBT® Speaking Section

The TOEFL Speaking section often surprises test-takers with questions they haven’t prepared for. These unexpected prompts can be intimidating, but with the right strategies, you can tackle them confidently. This blog guides you with some effective tips to handle unexpected questions in TOEFL speaking section.

Tips to Handle Unexpected Questions in TOEFL Speaking Section

Unexpected questions in TOEFL Speaking test your ability to think on your feet. With some strategic approaches, you can turn these challenges into opportunities to showcase your language skills.

1. Stay Calm and Take a Deep Breath

The first step in handling unexpected questions is maintaining composure. Panicking can disrupt your thought process and impact your fluency. Instead, take a deep breath to steady yourself and buy a moment to organize your thoughts.

Example: If you are asked, “Describe a situation where you had to make a difficult decision”, take a second to gather your thoughts before responding.

2. Use the Prep Time Effectively

In the TOEFL Speaking section, you usually get 15-30 seconds to prepare your answer. Utilize this time wisely. Quickly jot down keywords or a brief structure for your response, focusing on the main idea and supporting details.

Example: For a question like, “What is your favorite holiday and why?”, jot down points like new year - celebration, family time, fresh start - during the prep time.

Quick Read: TOEFL iBT® Speaking Score Calculation: Marking Criteria, Score Interpretation

3. Rephrase the Question in Your Answer

A useful strategy to buy time and show understanding is to rephrase the question as part of your response. This not only demonstrates your comprehension skills but also gives you a few extra seconds to think.

Example: If the question is, “What would you prioritize if you had to choose between time and money?” respond with, “If I understand correctly, you’re asking whether I would value time over money or vice versa.”

4. Use Familiar Examples and Experiences

Unexpected questions are easier to handle when you relate them to something familiar. Draw on personal experiences, stories, or knowledge that you are comfortable discussing. This helps you stay confident and fluent.

Example: For “Describe a historical event that influenced you”, you could talk about a well-known event like the moon landing and its impact on your perspective and human achievements.

5. Stick to a Simple Structure

Organize your response using a basic structure - introduction, reason, example, and conclusion. This approach helps you stay focused and ensures your answer is well organized.

Example: If asked, “What would you change about your hometown?” say, “I would improve public transportation because it is currently limited. For instance, adding more buses would help residents commute easily. This change would benefit everyone.”

Also Read: TOEFL Speaking Templates for All Speaking Tasks

6. Don’t Be Afraid to Improvise

If you’re completely unfamiliar with a topic, don’t panic. Make educated guesses or draw logical conclusions. The key is to remain confident and continue speaking fluently, as this shows your ability to adapt under pressure.

Example: For, “How would you solve the problem of space debris?”, you might respond, “Although I am not an expert, one solution could be using technology to recycle debris into usable materials.” 

7. Focus on Clarity Over Complexity

You don’t need to deliver a perfect answer or use complex vocabulary. Speak clearly and focus on making your main ideas understandable. Even simple language can convey depth if it’s used effectively.

Example: For an unexpected question like, “What animal would you be and why?” you could say, “I would be a bird because I’d love to experience flying. It seems freeing and exciting.”

8. Practice with Varied Topics

Prepare for the unexpected by practicing a wide range of topics, including unfamiliar ones. This builds your confidence in handling different question types and trains your mind to think on the spot.

Example: Practice answering random questions like "What would you invent to help the environment?" or "What is your opinion on virtual reality in education?"

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9. Use Filler Phrases Strategically

When you need a moment to think, use filler phrases to maintain fluency without awkward pauses. These phrases act as placeholders while you organize your thoughts, allowing you to sound more natural and confident during your response.

Example: “That’s a unique question. Let me think for a moment.” or “I haven’t thought about this before, but I’d say…”

10. Stay Positive and Keep Talking

Even if you feel your answer is not perfect, keep speaking confidently. TOEFL values your ability to convey ideas over having the right answer. A positive attitude helps to enhance your tone and delivery.

Example: If asked about a topic you don’t enjoy, like "What’s your opinion on math?" stay positive: "While math isn’t my favorite subject, I think it’s important for problem-solving and logical thinking."

Handling unexpected questions in the TOEFL Speaking section is a skill that can be developed with practice and a calm mindset. By staying organized and focusing on clarity, you can tackle any question with confidence. With effective preparation and a positive attitude, you can excel in your TOEFL speaking 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

• TOEFL Test Day: What to Expect and How to Prepare