TOEFL iBT® Preparation Shortcuts for Busy Students
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"Preparing for TOEFL with a busy schedule may seem like juggling frogs. Read on and get effective time management, study strategies, and a final checklist to conquer the TOEFL exam while balancing work and life."
Key Highlights
Preparing for TOEFL iBT® with a busy schedule may seem like juggling frogs. However, with smart strategies and proper planning, you can balance a work-life along with productive study sessions. But, how to set a schedule while you are always chasing your tail? Don’t worry we have got you covered with TOEFL preparation shortcuts for busy students.
In this article, we have outlined practical tips, preparation techniques, and essential checklists to help you stay on track and confidently approach the TOEFL.
Steps of Setting a Realistic Study Schedule
Creating a realistic study schedule involves balancing academic goals with work commitments. An optimized study schedule can boost your productivity and help prevent burnout.
Here are some steps to develop an effective study schedule:
Step 1: Prioritize Your Commitments
First, list all the commitments you can't miss, such as classes, work, meals, and sleep. Next, look at your current schedule and how you spend your time. Identify any unnecessary activities and remove them. This will help you find more time for studying.
Step 2: List down your Goals
Jot down all the subjects or topics in order of importance or difficulty. Break down all the large tasks into smaller and manageable tasks.
Step 3: Create a schedule
Create a schedule and make sure your schedule has all these necessary pointers:
Take Challenging subjects into consideration, practice or revise, and take short breaks.
Step 4: Find a distraction-free study environment
Make sure your study room has good lighting and comfortable seating. Keep your notes and books nearby. Create an environment free from distractions.
Step 5: Stick to the Schedule
After you schedule, the most essential part is making sure that you adhere to your schedule. There’s no point in making a study schedule if you don’t stick to it.
We have covered an in-depth blog for more detailed steps on managing your busy schedule. Head over and check out : Tips to Balance TOEFL Exam Preparation with a Full-Time
Balancing TOEFL Prep with a Busy Life
Preparing for the TOEFL can feel overwhelming, especially if you have a busy schedule. However, with good planning and prioritization, you can manage it. Start by looking at your current schedule. Find small free time you can use to study, even if they are just 30 minutes during breaks.
Focus on the areas where you need the most help. For example, if listening is your weakest part, listen to English podcasts, audiobooks, or TOEFL listening activities while you travel, eat, or exercise.
Using technology and including English in your daily life can help you a lot. Activities like watching English movies, reading news articles, or listening to lectures will improve your English without interfering with your work.
It can be tiring to juggle many tasks, but remember that consistency is essential. Set daily goals, like reading one passage or writing one essay, and stick to them.
Lastly, don’t sacrifice your physical and mental health while managing tasks. Make sure to rest, eat well, and take time to relax. A calm and focused mind is more productive than one that feels overwhelmed.
A Checklist for Final Preparation
Check all the items you need for test day. Make sure you have a valid ID, like a passport or driver’s license, that matches the name you used to register. Confirm the test location and time, and plan how to get there to avoid any last-minute rush or delays.
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Now that all is done here is a checklist for the final preparation:
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Take a final look at key concepts, notes, and rules.
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Take practice tests under timed conditions.
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Identify weak areas and focus on them; seek additional practice if you can.
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Curate a test strategy that is tailored to your strengths and practices.
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Read and understand the instructions for each section of the exam.
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Double-check all the test day requirements.
We have curated a One Month Study Plan for TOEFL iBT® Exam 2024, check it out before for the final preparation schedule.
This was our article on TOEFL preparation shortcuts for busy students. In conclusion, We suggest that if you are disciplined, know how to manage your time efficiently, and focus on your priorities you can pave the way for both academic and professional success.
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