How can I prevent myself from going off topic in the expression exams for TOEFL?

The TOEFL or the Test of English as a Foreign Language has four different sections. Two of these sections are challenging as one needs to give responses in verbal and written forms: the speaking and writing sections. In both of these exams, candidates have to express their ideas through making oral responses and writing essays. These may look easy; however, one problem most candidates have to face in these sections is avoiding going off topic in their responses.

source: englishharmony.com

The content of the responses in both speaking and writing in the TOEFL are very important. It is with these that the candidate is evaluated on how well he or she can express himself or herself in oral or written English. Topics are given of which the candidate has to answer. However, due to some reasons, some candidates go off topic losing points on their scores. How can one possible avoid going off the topic? Here is how:


TOEFL Speaking


 In the independent task, be sure to understand the task or the question given. For example, if the question asks about why you like your favourite restaurant, give responses that show reasons to why you fancy this particular restaurant. Do not describe the services but how you like the services.

 Give at least two reasons for your responses in Questions 1 and 2. Details in these responses should be related. Do not give out reasons that you have trouble providing strong supporting sentences or examples.

 In the integrated speaking part, follow a structure in your response. For example, in Question 5, start your response with what the problem is about, the choices or solutions given and your choice together with your reasons. Base your reasons to the details given in the conversation for easier organization of ideas.

 In the integrated part, do not include your own idea on the topic. This may result in going off the topic making your response irrelevant.


TOEFL Writing


 Does the lecture cast doubt or support the idea in the reading? Once you are sure about this, you will be able to outline your points showing clearly the connection between the reading and lecture.

 Have a clear introduction, body and conclusion for both integrated and independent tasks.

 In the independent writing, always create an outline of your essay. This will serve as the backbone of your essay. Fill in ideas that you think will be best in supporting your claim. Group ideas according to importance.

 Use transition words to show the flow of the content. Transition words help in guiding you on adding information or making a contradicting statement to a given idea.


Going off the topic can be avoided with practice. TOEFL review centers provide mock exams for both speaking and writing that will make TOEFL examinees become consistent and fluent in their responses.

For more TOEFL Tips toeflreview.blogspot.com.