TOEFL Debrief - 117

Hello,

I took the TOEFL in September and was busy applying to schools all this while. Hence the delayed debrief :

Score breakdown

Reading: 30
Speaking: 29
Listening: 29
Writing: 29

Total: 117

First, a disclaimer: I studied in institutes where English is the medium of instruction for 16 years and I would have waived TOEFL had I not applied to Berkeley – Haas, where TOEFL is mandatory. Therefore, my suggestions might not be very helpful. Nevertheless, here goes.

- Take the TOEFL after the GMAT. This will help you not only in the reading part of the test but also in writing, as you would have prepared for the AWA of the GMAT.

- I used Princeton Review’s ‘Cracking the TOEFL iBT’ for my preparation. The book comes with a CD with listening exercises and they are very helpful.

- Pay attention to the writing and speaking templates in the guide of your choice. Though you may find them to be odd, they are proven techniques and they work! I followed them to the hilt.

- I practiced for the speaking section by recording my responses on my MP3 player. You will realize the pronunciation errors you make and the speed at which you speak when you listen to your responses. This will help improve your diction considerably.

Best of luck!