TOEFL Writing: How to Ace Both the Integrated and Independent Tasks
Struggling with TOEFL writing? This guide walks you through how to write high-scoring essays on both the Integrated and Independent tasks. Learn clear structures, grammar tips, and how Myls Tutoring helps you improve fast with AI-powered feedback and expert coaching.
The TOEFL Writing section isn’t just a test of grammar—it’s a test of clarity, logic, and academic communication under time pressure. With just two writing tasks to complete in under an hour, every sentence needs to serve a purpose. Whether you're aiming for a top-tier university or a competitive scholarship, a strong writing score can set your application apart.
In this guide, you’ll learn what to expect on both TOEFL writing tasks, how to structure your responses, and which strategies will help you earn a higher score—even if English writing isn’t your strength.
What’s in the TOEFL Writing Section?
TOEFL Writing Section Overview
The TOEFL iBT Writing section of the includes two tasks:
- Integrated Writing Task (20 minutes)
- Independent Writing Task (30 minutes)
Total time: 50 minutes
Total score: 0–30 points
Each essay is scored on a 5-point scale and converted into the final writing score. You can find full scoring criteria here:
🔗 TOEFL Writing Scoring Guide – ETS
Task 1: Integrated Writing
What It Tests
- Your ability to synthesize information from two sources: a reading and a lecture
- How well you organize ideas from both texts
- How clearly and accurately you explain the relationship between them
What to Expect
- Reading passage (3 minutes): ~250–300 words
- Listening passage (~2 minutes): A lecture responding to the reading
- Writing prompt: Summarize the lecture and explain how it challenges or supports the reading.
Scoring Criteria
- Integration of ideas
- Accuracy of information
- Organization and clarity
- Language use (grammar + vocabulary)
Proven Structure
Introduction
Paraphrase the reading and state the lecturer’s position.
Body Paragraph 1–3
- Each paragraph covers one point from the reading + the lecture’s counterpoint or support.
- Use transitions like “In contrast,” “The lecture casts doubt on…”
Conclusion (Optional)
- One sentence summarizing the relationship between the texts.
Common Mistakes
- Copying exact phrases from the reading
- Adding personal opinions (never do this in Task 1)
- Ignoring points from the lecture
Task 2: Independent Writing
What It Tests
- Your ability to express and support an opinion
- How clearly you organize ideas into an academic essay
- Your grammar range and word choice
What to Expect
- Prompt asks for your opinion on a familiar topic
- Example: Do you agree or disagree with the idea that students should be required to wear uniforms?
Scoring Criteria
- Clear opinion and structure
- Logical development with examples
- Grammar and vocabulary control
Band 4–5 Essay Structure
Introduction
- Paraphrase the question
- Clearly state your opinion
Body Paragraph 1
- Topic sentence with your first reason
- Support with an example or explanation
Body Paragraph 2
- Topic sentence with second reason
- Support with detail or a personal story
Conclusion
- Restate your opinion
- Summarize key points briefly
Timing and Planning Tips
1. Don’t Skip the Outline
Spend 2–3 minutes outlining your main points before writing. This will save time by giving you a clear direction and prevent repetition.
2. Watch the Word Count
- Aim for 250–300 words in Task 2
- For Task 1, 150–225 words is ideal
- Don’t obsess over word count, but make sure your ideas are developed
3. Use Transitions Effectively
Show the flow of ideas with words like:
- Firstly, Furthermore, In contrast, As a result, However, In conclusion
Language and Grammar Strategies
1. Vary Sentence Structures
Mix simple, compound, and complex sentences.
Example:
Simple: This idea is important.
Complex: This idea is important because it affects students in daily life.
2. Use Academic Vocabulary
Replace informal words with academic ones:
- bad → detrimental
- good → beneficial
- a lot of → numerous / significant
3. Avoid Common Errors
Watch out for:
- Subject-verb agreement
- Verb tense consistency
- Article usage (a/an/the)
- Countable vs. uncountable nouns
How to Practice for TOEFL Writing
Use Real Prompts
Use official prompts from ETS:
🔗 TOEFL Practice Writing Questions – ETS
Write, Review, Repeat
Write 2 essays per week and review your structure, grammar, and coherence. If possible, get feedback from a tutor.
Type Your Responses
TOEFL is computer-based. Practice typing your essays under real conditions and train for speed and accuracy.
How Myls Tutoring Can Help You Succeed
TOEFL Writing success doesn’t come from memorized templates—it comes from personalized feedback, strategic practice, and guided improvement. That’s what Myls Tutoring delivers.
Here’s how we help you write smarter:
- Smart Online Tutor Matching: Find a tutor who specializes in TOEFL writing coaching.
- Initial Writing Diagnostic: Identify recurring grammar, structure, or clarity issues.
- AI-Powered Knowledge Graph: Track your progress across skills like coherence, grammar, and task response.
- Essay Bank & Feedback Archive: Access sample answers and store tutor feedback in your personal Knowledge Drive.
- Timed Writing Practice: Simulate real test conditions and build writing stamina.
- Flexible Online Tutoring Sessions: Practice when it fits your schedule, with no long-term contracts.
📚 Book your TOEFL writing session today—and start writing essays that hit your score goal.
