Prepping for TOEFL: The Debate Between Preparation and Cramming

For international students striving to advance their global education in an English-speaking country, the TOEFL iBT test is an important milestone. This test evaluates your proficiency in English language, comprising of four sections: Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening. With the growing number of international students taking the TOEFL iBT test each year, a hot debate arises: Is it better to thoroughly prepare or to cram last minute for this pivotal language examination?

When it comes to the TOEFL iBT test, methodical preparation can be your secret weapon. Here’s why:

Long-term TOEFL preparation allows for a deeper understanding of each language skill. Dedicating time to develop your reading, writing, speaking, and listening abilities ensures you have a solid foundation to rely on during the actual test.

Gradual practice often leads to increased self-confidence. Through repeated simulation of test conditions such as those found in TOEFL TestReady, you're better equipped to manage your time effectively and perform optimally. In fact, The overwhelming majority of learners we surveyed reported that the new test prep offerings and features within TOEFL TestReady boosted their confidence, improved their skills and increased their readiness for the TOEFL iBT test. '

Opting for a more strategic study approach enables you to customize your learning. You can identify your weaknesses and work on those areas more intensely, leading to a higher chance of overall improvement. For instance, once you create your ETS account and enter TOEFL TestReady, the portal can create a customized study plan for you that works with your schedule and lifestyle.

By preparing well in advance, you can circumvent the sometimes-overwhelming stress that comes with last-minute cramming. This, in turn, keeps your mind clear and ready for the task at hand.

Cramming, the art of absorbing a large volume of information in a short time, is a contentious strategy. Here are the pros and cons of taking this approach to the TOEFL iBT test:

Cramming can grant you a rapid influx of knowledge. For some, this can be more easily retained and recollected in the immediate future.

You may use cramming to hone in on specific troublesome areas, especially if you have only been casually exposed to the English language prior to their cramming session.

The sense of urgency associated with cramming can paradoxically motivate students to perform at their peak in a condensed period.

While cramming may result in a short-term knowledge boost, the lack of time spent on lasting comprehension may lead to little to no long-term retention or improved skills.

Cramming immediately before the test can leave you drained and stressed. This can negatively affect your performance and concentration, leading to less-than-optimal test scores.

In the quest for improved English proficiency, there are many resources at your disposal. TOEFL Test Ready, for example, provides coursework, practice tests, and interactive feedback designed to replicate the test experience. It is crucial to pick a resource that meets your learning preferences and objectives.

Online platforms can provide a multifaceted approach to your TOEFL preparation. Interactive courses offer structured learning, providing instant feedback on your progress and performance.

If you’re a disciplined learner, self-study materials can be highly effective. They allow you to work at your own pace, focusing on the content and strategies that will benefit you most.

Practicing with native speakers and experienced tutors can add a personal and conversational layer to your preparation. TOEFL has partnered with Preply for live, one-on-one tutoring with a TOEFL certified coach. This kind of interaction helps to improve understanding and fluency.

Success on the TOEFL iBT test is not just about how much you know but also about how well you know it and can apply it in the classroom and beyond. While there are certain advantages to each approach, the most successful strategy often employs both preparation and cramming in a balanced formula.

Begin with methodical long-term planning and preparation, supplemented by periodic review to maintain and reinforce your knowledge. In the weeks leading up to the test, allocate specific study hours to areas that need improvement. But remember, only cram briefly the night before the exam, as you don't want fatigue and stress to diminish the hard work you've put in over the previous months.

Good luck on your TOEFL iBT test preparation — and remember, the key to any language proficiency is the application of consistent and varied practice. After all, fluency is not built in a day, but over time.

_{' Source: Survey of 765 users across China, India and the U.S.}