Due to the time consuming nature, it turns common for TOEFL students to least practice the Reading comprehension. Lack of practice creates concern and hype over the TOEFL Reading section, by the time final examination comes close. Students count this as the least scoring section and so on.
Ideally the Reading comprehension of TOEFL test contains 3-4 reading passage followed by MCQ questions. Students read the passages and select the most relevant answer for each MCQ question.
To resolve the worry over TOEFL reading section, here is stating 8 tips that can make solving TOEFL comprehension a much easy task for candidates:
Adjust reading speed
To successfully solve a comprehension, it’s important to read the passage from start to end. Now for a slow reader, studying the TOEFL passage may take the entire exam time which is of course not possible. As remedy, its better to modify a candidate’s reading speed. They should plan how much time they will invest for reading the passage and apply the same during TOEFL exam.
Jump to Questions First
Reading the TOEFL comprehension passage is only to answer the related questions. To make this short and simple, one can first go through the questions they have to answer. Skipping directly to the questions will make reading easy and examinees can highlight areas from where most questions originate.
Identify Keywords
TOEFL comprehension passages usually carries keywords that you will be able to identify both in passage and questions. If you can spot these keywords, then solving the TOEFL comprehension will be much easier. In case of computer based TOEFL exam, you cannot mark the words. However, you can use the search option to find the keywords and answer accurately.
Strategize Your Guesswork
Inadequate time in hand often makes guesswork a must during TOEFL exam. Now, that definitely does not mean a student can guess and answer the entire comprehension section. For guessing, TOEFL students need to make sure that their assumed answers are backed by logical reasons and rational approach.
Review Your Answers
Though time is indeed critical during TOEFL exam, yet its recommended that you review the Reading comprehension section before submission. Reviewing answers eliminates the scope of silly mistakes or marking the wrong option in case of MCQ questions. By reviewing, it’s not only over viewing the Reading comprehension section but at the same time, logically checking each of your answer.
No Outside Knowledge
When solving the TOEFL Reading comprehension, just answer the questions based on the passage provided. Do not apply any prior knowledge that you have. TOEFL examiners only consider the content provided while checking the answer and no outside sources.
Application of Probability
Application of probability applies especially for MCQ questions. Start by mentally eliminating the most irrelevant answer and reach the one that’s most suitable for the given question. The probability option has been accepted by many TOEFL students so far.
Antonym/Synonym
Reading comprehension often involves questions where TOEFL students need to write opposites or meanings. For these, it’s better to consider the literal meaning of the word in the given passage. Once again, do not consider meaning of the words and terminologies that does not have connect with the passage.
Text books and websites now provide ample free reading comprehension for practice. Try them in advance applying the above strategies, so that there is no doubt by the time you enter your TOEFL exam centre.
