Correct sentences, clear purpose, supported opinions
The TOEFL iBT Writing section has about 12 items in about 23 minutes, across three task types. ETS says scoring focuses on how clearly and effectively you communicate your ideas, not on writing a perfect first draft. The older integrated and independent essays are no longer part of the section.
Task 1: Build a Sentence
You arrange words or phrases to form a complete, grammatical sentence or question.
Strategy
- Find the main verb first, then its subject, then the object or complement.
- For questions, place the question word and auxiliary correctly: What did the professor suggest?
- Check that every word is used and nothing sounds unnatural.
Practice
- Write your own sentences, scramble them, and rebuild them the next day.
- Focus on questions, relative clauses and adverb placement.
Task 2: Write an Email
You write an email in an academic or social situation, such as making a request, giving information or proposing a solution.
A reliable structure
- Greeting suited to the reader.
- Purpose in the first sentence or two.
- One short paragraph for each point the task requires.
- A clear closing or next step.
Useful language
- Requesting: Would it be possible to…?, Could you let me know…?
- Informing: I wanted to let you know that…
- Proposing: One option might be to…, What if we…?
Task 3: Write for an Academic Discussion
You contribute to an online classroom discussion by stating and supporting your opinion.
Strategy
- Give a clear position in your first sentence.
- Support it with a specific reason and an example.
- Add something new rather than repeating other participants’ points; you can briefly agree or disagree with one of them.
Useful language
- I see the point about X, but I think…
- One reason is that…, For example, in my own studies…
Editing in the time you have
Keep a short checklist and use it at the end of each task:
- subject–verb agreement and verb tense;
- articles and plurals;
- every required point included;
- tone right for the reader.
Common mistakes
- Statement word order in questions.
- Missing one of the points an email task asks for.
- An opinion with no reason or example.
- Using templates written for the old integrated essay.
Quick FAQ
Is there still an essay? Not a long essay. The current tasks are Build a Sentence, Write an Email and Write for an Academic Discussion.
Should I type fast or carefully? Both matter, but clarity wins. Leave a moment to check your answer.
Official ETS sources
Accuracy note (15 September 2026): this article reflects the TOEFL iBT format introduced in January 2026.