Test of English as Foreign Language is an international exam taken by candidates aiming to study in countries where English is the native mode of communication and education. Every year thousands of Indians take this exam to study in countries like UK, USA, Canada, and Australia and so on. TOEFL is recognized by over 9,000 colleges, universities and education bodies. Following are the mistakes you can avoid on the test day:
Avoid Stress Few Days Before Exam: Being a little nervous is all fine, but getting anxious before the exam can hamper your performance in the test. You will have a one-on-one session with the examiner, and it is necessary to stay calm and confident. Try to wrap up all the studies two days before the exam. Keep the last day for leisure activities.
Avoid Attempting the Test Without Taking Mocks: No matter how well you prepare for TOEFL test, it will still be incomplete without taking mock tests. There are a number of websites which offer free TOEFL test. Do not give the main exam without taking few mock tests. This is important as it prepares you through the whole process of the exam day. Taking up TOEFL practice tests add oodles of confidence and helps you to plan the exam in the right way. Candidates who take exam without the mock tests often panic resulting in an unfavorable score.
Never be Late: Plan for your exam day well before the actual TOEFL dates. Arrive at the center at least 30 minutes before the test starts. Reaching late may make you anxious which can hamper your performance at the test.
Don’t Forget your Registration No. and the ID Documents: Remember the name you registered with should exactly match with your Identification proof. Carry a valid ID proof and the registration number. In case of discrepancies, you may not be permitted to take the exam. In which case, the test fee will not be refunded. Keep the documents in your bag the previous day itself.
Don’t Get Distracted: At all times concentrate on your exam alone. Avoid getting distracted by what other candidates are doing. Always always focus on what you are doing and forget the rest.
Make Notes: For listening section especially, make notes as and when you feel the need. Do not rely completely on your memory. Due to the pressure in the exam and the time constraint you may goof up the answers. Practice making notes even during preparation of the test.
It is ok to hesitate initially in the speaking section, but it is also needed to immediately pick yourself up and balance it with a good speech. Do not get hassled if the start is not very great. The examiner will test your overall ability to communicate. Hence, ensure that you make up if you have a bad start.
Avoid Using Vocabulary or Grammar that you are Unsure of: Whether in Speaking or Writing section never take chance with words or usage of words, you are unfamiliar with. It is not required to use complex words. The examiners would test your clarity of thought and ability to communicate fluently. Keep this in mind and organize your speech or essay. Think of introduction, main content and conclusion as the key points.
Don’t Take Long/Many Breaks: Do not run to the restroom during a section of the ongoing test. Even though that is permitted, the test time keeps running. Instead freshen yourself during the breaks provided. Use the breaks to drink water and re-energize for the next section.
Don’t Let the Slump of one Section Affect the Entire Exam: If your speaking section did not turn out as expected, do not lose motivation for the writing or listening sections. Start each section with new enthusiasm. Do not repeat the mistakes of the previous section.
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