8 TOEIC Exam Preparation Tips from a TOEIC Tutor

When it comes to taking the TOEIC exam, developing your English skills is only half the battle: Your mindset and strategy are just as important. Easier said than done, especially if you're completely new to the TOEIC. Not to worry -- as an experienced TOEIC coach, I have some simple tips to help you prepare and approach the exam with more confidence.

Note: You'll find a handy word bank at the bottom full of explanations of vocabulary and phrases from this blog post that may be new to you.

8 TOEIC Preparation Tips

1. Know the test

The first thing I like to do with my TOEIC-taking students is brief them on the ins and outs of the test itself: the test format, the type of tasks they'll be asked to do in each section, how many questions are in each section, the timing of each task, what the answer sheets look like, scoring echelons... pretty much anything about how the test is structured and conducted.

This may sound simple, but even if your English language skills are strong and you head off to the test without knowing anything about its content and format, something unexpected could catch you off guard and affect your performance. Knowing the test well helps you keep a cool head on the day and feel more prepared.

2. Do plenty of practice tests

One of the best ways to get a feel for the TOEIC test is to do as many practice tests as you can. You can find some for free online or buy a TOEIC preparation book. This is essential to know what type of questions to expect, but it's also useful for expanding your TOEIC vocabulary (see the next tip).

3. Create a vocabulary bank

Dedicate a notebook to new vocabulary words and phrases you pick up on your TOEIC preparation journey. Write the word or phrase down in one colour and write the meaning, synonyms or an example sentence next to it in a different colour.

Practice tests are perfect for this: Highlight or make a note of any words that are new to you as you go through the practice tests, then, when you've finished, look up the meanings and add them to your vocabulary bank (see the next tip).

Some teachers may recommend translating new words into your native language, but this isn't always effective because sometimes, there is no direct translation. I favour techniques like using context to try and understand the meaning of a word or looking up synonyms and example sentences containing the word, but this is entirely up to you -- go with what feels best and easiest for you.

4. Use word lists

There is an abundance of TOEIC vocabulary lists online, and I strongly recommend using these to build up your word bank. Try to go through the lists and pick out some new words every day to add to your word bank.

5. Immerse yourself in English

Read articles and listen to TED Talks and podcasts on TOEIC themes. TOEIC topics include things like (but are not limited to):

• Business

• Traveling

• Technology

• Purchasing

• Job applications

• Salaries

• Cultural etiquette

• Marketing and advertising

• Corporate development

• Office life

• Restaurants and dining

• Health

• Education

• Housing

• & many more

This helps you expand your vocabulary while sharpening your listening skills -- this is very important if you're planning on taking the TOEIC listening test.

6. Practice time management

Practice tests are a great way to get used to the timing of the test -- and good time management skills are essential for success. Here are some timing tips to consider:

• Read the question before you read the text. This helps you save time by giving you ideas of keywords to look for.

• If you struggle with a question, leave it and move on, then come back to it at the end when you have time left over. If you still can't answer the second time around, guess and keep it moving.

• Avoid reading the entire text word for word -- just look for keywords or phrases related to the question to help you find your answer more quickly.

• Start with the most difficult part of the test first. For example, if you're doing the reading section, consider starting with part 7, then go on to parts 5 and 6.

7. Invest in a TOEIC book

Comprehensive TOEIC books are ideal for practice tests, grammar exercises and vocabulary work. You can dip into your book and complete exercises when you have a few minutes spare throughout the day and do the more intensive exercises when you can. It's a good idea to get into the habit of doing some exercises every day to keep your TOEIC skills sharp.

I use L'integrale TOEIC (NATHAN) here in France with my students, but it's partly in French, so have a look around and see what's available in your location.

8. Work with a TOEIC tutor

Some prefer to prepare for the TOEIC by themselves, but if you want someone to guide you through, consider working with a TOEIC tutor. You can find classes in language schools or work with an independent tutor online or in person depending on your schedule and needs.

A good TOEIC tutor can provide you with useful materials and exercises and help you identify your strengths and weaknesses to give you a better chance of getting the best score you can. I have plenty of experience in TOEIC tutoring, so don't hesitate to check out my specialized English courses page if you're looking for an online tutor.

Word & Phrase Bank

"daunting" - synonyms include "intimidating"

"ins and outs (of something)" - all the details of something. Example: "Knowing the ins and outs of the TOEIC test will help you approach it with confidence."

"catch you off guard" - something unexpected that takes you by surprise. Example: "If you don't know the format of the test well, you could be caught off guard and not know what to do."

"keep a cool head" - keep/stay calm. Example: "Knowing the structure of the test will help you keep a cool head on the day."

"an abundance of (something)" - a lot of something. Example: "There is an abundance of TOEIC books out there."