TOEFL Reading: An Introduction to TOEFL Reading Section

For many, scoring well in the Reading section of the TOEFL exam can be challenging and cause them to lose precious marks. However, this task is achievable with rigorous practice and a little effort. If meticulously prepared, the Reading section of the TOEFL exam can be the easiest and can fetch a person full marks. Read the blog to understand what the TOEFL Reading test is all about thoroughly.

TOEFL: An Overview

TOEFL Reading Test

Cracking the TOEFL test can initially seem intimidating; therefore, starting strong is always a wise decision to help build your confidence. The exam begins with the TOEFL Reading section, which comprises around 3-4 passages with approximately 13-14 questions each. This makes the total questions range of the section almost 56 questions. The passages are about 700 words long and are primarily excerpts from textbooks. The time allotted may vary from 60 to 80 minutes, depending on the number of passages.

The TOEFL Reading Test aims to evaluate one's understanding of the English language, including vocabulary skills, inference skills and cohesion understanding.
TOEFL Reading: Question types
In the Reading segment, TOEFL questions are of several types. The following are described below-

• Factual Information Questions- This type requires the applicant to recall specific details and information from the passage by carefully analyzing it. Four answer choices are provided, and one must select the correct one. There are two correct answers to specific questions, so both must be marked.

A trick while answering such questions is to look carefully in the passage for the specific word mentioned in the passage.

• Negative Factual Information Questions- For Negative Factual questions, one must find out which of the four options provided is 'False'.
  
  
• Inference Questions- Such questions judge one's ability to conclude from the passage. To answer these questions, individuals must establish logical links from facts mentioned in the articles and make assertions based on them.

Inference-style questions are rare in the TOEFL exam. However, one must prepare for them.

• Vocabulary Questions- This question is usually observed in the TOEFL exam. These questions test a person's vocabulary skills and understanding of how words fit into a particular context.

A quick trick that one can follow for these questions is to read a few lines that come before and after the word. Knowing the context makes it easier to comprehend the meaning of the word.

• Reference Questions- One must establish relations and connections between words and phrases to answer these questions. Usually, the question asks what terms like "it" or "this" refers to

To find the answer, try replacing all possible options for the word provided and read the sentence in your mind a few times. The answer option might be correct if the sentence still makes sense when read in the context of the paragraph.

• Insert Text Questions- In this question type, one has to decide if and where a new sentence can fit in the passage in a way that doesn't change the meaning of the passage. Such questions take up much time, so always be cautious while attempting the exam.
  
  
• Sentence Simplification Questions- They determine an individual's ability to make sense of a sentence and paraphrase it accordingly. Although such questions are rare in the TOEFL exam, it is always better to practice them beforehand.
  
  
• Summary Questions- These questions usually carry 2 to 3 points and appear at the final of every passage. In such questions, a list of six sentences is provided, out of which one must choose the three closest to describe the summary of the passage.

TOEFL Reading- Tips to Remember

Preparing for the Reading section of the TOEFL exam can be tricky, but with the right strategies, tips and tricks, one can achieve high scores. To get the scores of your dreams, read the following tips-

Become an avid reader
A person that reads more always has a higher chance of scoring well in the TOEFL Reading section. One's reading speed matters while giving the TOEFL exam, so practice increasing your speed. However, reading fast without understanding the text is of no use. Engage with the text without merely scanning through it. Habitually read newspapers, magazines or even novels daily to increase your reading speed. The results won't be instant, but gradually you will notice your reading speed and ability to grasp a sentence improving.

Learn the art of Time management
Time is crucial in the TOEFL exam, especially the reading section. Most test takers lose precious marks in the reading section because they do not manage their time properly. It is a fact that the reading section is lengthy and takes time to attempt. So, prepare yourself beforehand. On average, one can spend a maximum of a minute answering each question. This may seem complicated, but with practice, one can execute it.

TOEFL Reading Practice Tests to the Rescue
Taking the help of practice tests is always an intelligent decision. There is no better way to judge your strengths and weaknesses than by taking a practice test. Not only do mock tests give the authentic feel of the exam, but they also help a person improve their time management skills. Time yourselves while taking the mock test to get accurate scores. One can easily find TOEFL Reading practice tests online, so use them!

Enhance your vocabulary
Having a good vocabulary is always a good flex and comes in handy, even more so while giving the TOEFL Reading test. A broad selection of vocabulary will make understanding the passage easier, resulting in quicker, faster and more accurate responses. Take the help of flashcards or even a dictionary to learn new words.

Refrain from dwelling on a topic
Even with thorough practice and learning, there may be a situation when you don't know a particular topic or question or word. The key is not to stress out. Take a deep breath, move on to the next question or passage for the time being, and return to the things left out in the end. Don’t let the situation get the best of you and maintain your calm.

Conclusion
Overall, the TOEFL Reading section tests a person's comprehension and analysis of English texts. The key to acing this section of the test is to understand the test's structure, practice active reading and TOEFL reading practice tests, build your vocabulary, become familiar with the different question types, and review yourself frequently. This blog all the essential information needed about the same.