TOEFL speaking
TOEFL Speaking: Templates for All 4 Tasks
TOEFL Speaking gives you very little time to think, so a template is your best friend. If you already know the shape of your answer, you can focus your energy on delivering it fluently. Here are simple templates for all four tasks.
Task 1 — Independent (your opinion)
You get a question, 15 seconds to prepare, and 45 seconds to speak.
"In my opinion, [state your choice]. I feel this way for two reasons. First, [reason 1] — for example, [personal example]. Second, [reason 2]. For these reasons, I believe [restate choice]."
Two reasons with one quick personal example is the perfect amount for 45 seconds. Don't try to cram three.
Task 2 — Integrated (reading + campus conversation)
You read a short announcement, hear two students discuss it, then report the speaker's opinion.
"The reading announces that [the change]. In the conversation, the man/woman [agrees/disagrees] with this. They give two reasons. First, [reason 1]. Second, [reason 2]."
Task 3 — Integrated (reading + lecture)
You read an academic concept, hear a lecture with an example, then explain how the example illustrates the concept.
"The reading defines [concept] as [definition]. In the lecture, the professor illustrates this with an example about [topic]. [Explain the example and how it shows the concept]."
Task 4 — Integrated (lecture only)
You hear a lecture on an academic topic, then summarise the main points.
"The lecture is mainly about [main idea]. The professor explains [point 1 with detail], and also describes [point 2 with detail]."
Timing that scores
- Start immediately when the microphone opens — a long pause hurts your delivery score.
- Use your notes from the prep time as a map, not a script.
- Speak until the time runs out — don't finish early. Add a detail if you have spare seconds.
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