The TOEFL Integrated Writing Task can feel challenging because it combines reading, listening, and writing skills all in one section. Many people preparing for the exam, including those interested in TOEFL Coaching in Ahmedabad, often find this part tricky at first. But with the right approach and regular practice, you can build the confidence and skills needed to do well.

In this blog, we’ll break down what the Integrated Writing Task is and share simple steps you can follow to prepare effectively.

What is the Integrated Writing Task?

This is the first of two writing tasks in the TOEFL exam. Here’s how it works:

• You’ll read a short academic passage in 3 minutes
  
  

• Then you’ll listen to a related lecture lasting about 2 minutes
  
  

• Finally, you’ll write an essay explaining how the lecture relates to or disagrees with the reading
  
  

You’ll have 20 minutes to finish your essay, which should be around 250–300 words. Your job is to summarize the key points from both the reading and the lecture and explain their relationship, without adding your personal opinion.

What Skills Are Tested?

This task measures your ability to:

• Understand and summarize information from both reading and listening
  
  

• Identify the main ideas and see how they connect or differ
  
  

• Organize your ideas clearly in writing
  
  

How to Approach the Task

Here’s a simple method to help you manage this task:

1. Read the Passage

Spend your 3 minutes focusing on the main idea and three supporting points. Take quick notes.

2. Listen to the Lecture

The lecture usually challenges or adds to the reading. Listen carefully and note how it responds to each point.

3. Plan Your Essay

Take 2–3 minutes to organize your thoughts. A typical structure includes:

• Introduction: Mention the topic and summarize both the reading and the lecture
  
  

• Body Paragraphs: Three paragraphs, each explaining one point from the reading and how the lecture addresses it
  
  

• Conclusion (optional): A short summary of how the two sources relate
  
  

4. Write Clearly

Use clear and formal language. Link your ideas with words like however, in contrast, and on the other hand. Always paraphrase instead of copying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Copying exact words from the reading or lecture
  
  

• Adding your personal opinion
  
  

• Skipping the planning step
  
  

How to Practice Effectively

To get better, try these tips:

• Use official TOEFL practice tasks with a timer
  
  

• Listen to academic lectures and take notes
  
  

• Read short academic articles and summarize their main ideas
  
  

• Practice paraphrasing ideas in your own words
  
  

• Write practice essays and check them for clarity and grammar
  
  

Conclusion

The TOEFL Integrated Writing Task may seem tough at first, but with steady practice and a clear plan, it gets easier. Strong note-taking, good planning, and clear writing will help you improve your score and feel more confident on exam day.

FAQs

1. How long should my essay be?
Aim for 250–300 words, focusing on clear ideas rather than exact length.

2. Can I add my personal opinion?
No. Your task is to summarize and compare the reading and lecture only.

3. How much time do I have?
You get 20 minutes total for reading, planning, and writing.

4. Will grammar mistakes lower my score?
Minor mistakes are okay, but too many errors can hurt your score.

5. How can I improve paraphrasing?
Practice rewriting ideas in your own words without changing the meaning.