What should I use as the base of my TOEFL preparation as a student from India?
Base your TOEFL preparation on official material: the ETS website, the Official Guide to the TOEFL, and the official test volumes, which each carry 5 authentic full-length tests. Attempt these before any other mock test, and add newspapers, magazines and podcasts later.
Your TOEFL preparation should rest on official material first. The ETS website is the starting point, and the Official Guide to the TOEFL should form the base of your study.
Core Resources
| Resource | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| ETS official website | Trusted source for test pattern, study material and related content |
| Official Guide to the TOEFL | Written by the makers of the test, with official questions and tests |
| Official TOEFL Tests, Volumes 1 and 2 | Each volume has 5 authentic full-length tests; attempt them before any other mock test |
| Third-party practice books | Can add practice questions and strategy guidance across sections |
Extra Resources
Newspapers, magazines such as The Economist, and podcasts can build reading and listening skills. Use them only after you have completed your basic preparation and are performing well on mock tests. Check the official ETS page for the latest material.
My Advice
Begin with the official tests so you learn the real question style. Add other books only when you see a gap, and keep one notebook of your mistakes from every test.
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