Every year, hundreds of Bhutanese students apply for TOEFL ( Test of English as a Foreign Language) exam classes to continue their studies overseas because it accurately evaluates their English proficiency level.
More than 9,000 colleges, universities, and organizations in 130 countries accept the TOEFL exam results as evidence of English proficiency. It tests your writing, speaking, listening, and reading skills.
Due to the mass popularity of the test in countries, many myths and rumors developed around the test. Here are the 7 most common myths about the TOEFL exam.
If you are looking for a reputable training institute to help you ace your TOEFL exam, look no further than Chhundu Training Institute (CTI).
1. Myth 1: You Can’t Achieve Your Goal Score
TOEFL exam with CTI
Myth: People frequently believe that the TOEFL exam is an extremely difficult test that is nearly impossible to pass, especially if you are a non-native speaker. As a result, only expert skills can produce good results.
Fact: Such myths do nothing but raise anxiety in the minds of those preparing for the TOEFL exam and may even discourage people from taking the test or doing their best to prepare.
The difficulty level of the test is highly subjective. Someone who understands the language and prepares with diligence for the test might not fall into the trap of believing in these popular perceptions.
You can easily ace the test with sufficient practice for the paper and the right guidance.
2. Myth: You Need To Speak with an Accent
Ace your TOEFL exam with the right training institute
Myth: Non-native English speakers frequently believe that native English speakers will have an easier time because it is their primary language of communication.
Furthermore, their accent earns them more points on the speaking test. They frequently believe that to score well, they must speak in the country accent they wish to apply or in an American accent.
Fact: Although native speakers may have an advantage, the test is meant to evaluate the total ability to comprehend and apply the language in an academic context, making it challenging for everyone.
Furthermore, there are no points for accent the clarity of the responses and the idea's proper communication.
3. Myth 3: You Can Only Take TOEFL Exam Once
Achieve the best TOEFL exam score possible
Myth: Many students are anxious about getting the best TOEFL exam score possible, fuelled by the myth that this is their only chance to get a good score, a necessary key to their future college.
Fact: It is important to note that there is no limit to the number of times you can take the TOEFL exam.
You can retake the test multiple times if you fail the exam or want to improve your score. But it must also be noted that it cannot be re-taken within three days.
4. Myth 4: TOEFL Exam Is Easier In Some Countries
TOEFL exam standardized format
Myth: Many students preparing for the TOEFL exam think that TOEFL tests are easier in some countries. Many students even make trips to take the TOEFL exam to “easy TOEFL countries” in hopes of scoring high.
Fact: This is untrue. Since the TOEFL exam is a standardized test, it has a standardized format no matter where you take the exam.
Even when checking, a set and consistent method is used. All of the responses are forwarded to New Jersey. Then it is distributed to graders all over the world.
5. Myth 5: Transitions are Unnecessary
Transition words or phrases must be used properly.
Myth: People studying for the TOEFL exam frequently believe that transition words or phrases are irrelevant to writing or speaking abilities.
Fact: Transition words or phrases must be used to properly organize the idea or convey the expression of the concept.
These words are magical helpers for presenting contrasting scenarios and examples, giving structure to whatever you are speaking or writing, or making it more cohesive.
Words like however, additionally, likewise, in conclusion, and so on can help you better organize and present your ideas. This facilitates and improves understanding of the ideas for listeners as well.
6. Myth 6: You Must Have Academic Knowledge
Check how well one can comprehend.
Myth: To perform well in the reading section, you must have prior knowledge of the subject.
Applicants often believe having all the academic knowledge about the subject is a prerequisite for scoring decently.
Fact: It is impossible to study all the topics as any subject can be given in the reading and comprehension section.
Having some knowledge about the topic is always a plus point. If you are unaware of the topic, the questions are solely based on the passage.
Thus the section aims to check how well you can comprehend and imply from a piece of text. An accurate interpretation of the text is enough to answer the questions correctly.
7. Myth 7: Exceed the Word Limit in the Writing Section
Writing too long can be time-consuming.
Myth: The next myth about the TOEFL exam is going over the word limit. Many TOEFL exam test takers believe that the more you write, the better. They frequently advise going over the term limit to improve your score.
Fact: Going a few words over the word limit is acceptable if the idea is communicated effectively. Long essays, on the other hand, cannot guarantee higher grades.
Writing long essays to fill pages is pointless because the quality of the text is the ultimate deciding factor.
Furthermore, writing too long can be time-consuming and thus unfeasible for the candidate. While correcting such answers, the examiner may lose interest.
Concluding Thoughts
Even though the score is important for admissions at some universities, many worldwide consider factors besides the TOEFL exam score.
English language proficiency is only one component of admissions; other factors, such as a person's resume, extracurricular activities, and personality, are also considered.
Therefore, these are just some common misconceptions that we wanted you to eliminate. Explore all your options before you reject or consider leaving this lifetime opportunity.
Trying to get accepted into one of the elites Ivy League colleges? Learn the TOEFL test requirements for ivy league colleges so you can achieve the highest possible score.
To score well in the TOEFL exam, you must not believe in any myths you hear. Instead, opt for a suitable training course with updated study material. So, why wait? Book a seat at CTI’s TOEFL classes today and ace your TOEFL exam at once!