TOEFL iBT – Exam 1 – Writing

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  • The TOEFL iBT Writing section

    The TOEFL iBT Writing section includes:

    • Tasks: 2 writing tasks
    • Types of tasks:
      • 1 Integrated writing task
      • 1 Independent writing task
    • Preparation time: 3 minutes for reading, 20 minutes for the Integrated writing task
    • Writing time: 30 minutes for the Independent writing task
    • Total duration: 50 minutes to complete this section

    Important details

    • The Integrated task requires you to read a short passage and listen to a lecture on the same topic, then write a summary of both, explaining how the listening either supports or contradicts the reading.
    • The Independent task asks you to write an essay expressing your opinion on a familiar topic, using reasons and examples to support your argument.
    • You can take notes during both the reading and listening parts of the Integrated task to organize your response.
    • Your writing is evaluated based on the quality of your ideas, organization, development, grammar, and vocabulary usage.

    Writing scores

    Each of the four sections of the TOEFL iBT—Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing—is scored on a scale of 0-30, totaling 120 points. The proficiency levels for writing are:


    ‣ Advanced: 24-30

    ‣ High-Intermediate: 17-23

    ‣ Low-Intermediate: 13-16

    ‣ Basic: 7-12

    ‣ Below Basic: 0-6

    Scores provide personalized feedback and performance insights. Writing scores are usually released a few days after the test. There are no passing or failing scores; institutions set their own requirements. For more details, visit the TOEFL score understanding page.

    Question types

    The Writing section includes two types of tasks:

    1. ✍ Integrated Writing:

      You will read a short passage on an academic topic and listen to a lecture on the same topic. Your task is to write a summary of the lecture and explain how it either supports or contradicts the reading passage.

      Example: “Summarize the points made in the lecture, explaining how they challenge the points made in the reading passage.”

    2. ✍ Independent Writing:

      You will write an essay expressing your personal opinion on a given topic. You need to support your argument with reasons and examples from your own experience.

      Example: “Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? ‘It is better to live in a big city than a small town.’ Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.”

    Tips for success

    ‣ Organize your essay with a clear structure: an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

    ‣ Use transitions to connect your ideas logically and smoothly.

    ‣ Support your points with specific examples and reasons to make your argument stronger.

    ‣ Practice writing under timed conditions to get used to managing your time effectively in both tasks.

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