Intermediate8 min read
TOEFL Writing: Independent Task Guide (30/30)
The Independent Task gives you 30 minutes to write an opinion essay of at least 300 words. Here is a structure that scores 27–30 consistently.
Practice TOEFL Writing →5-Paragraph Essay Structure for TOEFL
Introduction → Body 1 → Body 2 → Body 3 (optional concession) → Conclusion. Aim for 300–400 words. The rater evaluates unity, organisation, progression, and language use.
- Introduction (50 words): Hook, background, clear thesis
- Body 1 (80 words): Strongest reason + example/evidence
- Body 2 (80 words): Second reason + example
- Body 3 optional (60 words): Acknowledge opposing view, then refute
- Conclusion (40 words): Restate thesis + broader implication
Introduction Formula That Works
Example: In an increasingly interconnected world, the question of whether [topic] has sparked significant debate. While some people believe [opposite view], I would argue that [your position] for two primary reasons: [reason 1] and [reason 2].
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TOEFL Scoring Criteria
TOEFL Writing is scored on a 0–5 scale by two raters, then converted to 0–30.
- Score 5 (28–30): Addresses the topic fully, well-organised, varied language, rare errors
- Score 4 (24–27): Generally addresses topic, mostly organised, some lapses in clarity
- Score 3 (17–23): Addresses the topic but inadequately, noticeable errors
Timed Practice Strategy
Spend 5 minutes planning (bullet-point outline), 22 minutes writing, 3 minutes reviewing for mechanical errors. Never skip the planning phase — essays written without a plan tend to lose coherence after paragraph 2.
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