TOEFL iBT · Writing
TOEFL iBT Writing: sentences, email and discussion
Understand the three current task families and the different purpose behind each one.
- ETS base time
- About 23 min
- Base item count
- 12
- Task families
- 3
The format, explained
Build a Sentence
Arrange words or phrases into a grammatical sentence or question. Check the structure as a whole.
Write an Email
Respond to a situation with a clear purpose, such as a request or a proposed solution. Make sure your reader gets the needed information.
Write for an Academic Discussion
Contribute a supported opinion to a classroom discussion. Develop your own point while responding appropriately to the discussion.
Where to start practising
- Before drafting an email, turn the requested points into a short content checklist.
- In discussion practice, explain one reason with a useful detail instead of listing several unsupported claims.
- During revision, check sentence completeness, meaning and tone before replacing simple words with longer ones.
Common questions
Are all Writing items essays?
No. The section includes sentence construction, an email and a discussion contribution.
Will I type my answers?
Yes. ETS describes computer-typed responses for Writing. Include typing in your practice, without letting speed replace clear content.
Official format references
Format facts are based on these official sources. Check the provider’s current instructions before booking. The study advice is Professor Scott’s independent guidance.
Format reviewed:
Put the English into practice
Read & practise
Short lessons for related English foundations. These are not official exam questions or complete test simulations.
Join sentences with and, but and so
Choose a connector and use a comma between complete clauses.
Read & practiseHow to ask for clarification in English
Ask for repetition or an explanation, then confirm what you understood.
Read & practiseHow to agree partly and explain your concern
Name the point you accept, then explain the part you see differently.
Read & practiseKeep exploring
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