Advanced English Writing Practice Questions for the TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, & CELPIP

Welcome to our free writing practice resource for advanced English learners and students preparing for the TOEFL, TOEIC, CELPIP, IELTS, and others!

This question bank is designed to help you develop the writing skills you’ll need for any advanced English proficiency exam, especially the TOEFL Writing section, which challenges you to express clear, organized, and grammatically precise ideas under time pressure. It’s a great complement to Brainscape's web and mobile TOEFL flashcards or Advanced English flashcards (for any other English exam), which drill you on essential vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.

Before you start, here’s how it works:

You'll start with mini practice prompts that focus on key writing subskills: grammar, structure, vocabulary use, and logical flow. Then you'll practice with real TOEFL-style prompts, such as the Integrated Writing Task (where you summarize and compare information from a reading and a lecture) and the Independent Writing Task (where you write an opinion essay).

Here are some tips for getting the most out of this practice:

• Focus on meaning first. Before you fill in a blank, read the full sentence carefully and think about what relationship is being expressed: cause and effect (for example, “because” or “so”), contrast (for example, “but” or “on the other hand”), concession (for example, “although” or “even though"), or sequence (for example, “next” or “after that”).. This helps you choose the correct connector naturally.
• Say your answer out loud (or in your head). Speaking your sentence helps you hear whether it sounds fluent and grammatically correct.
• Check for variety. Don’t rely on the same few linking words every time. Make a list of alternatives (e.g., however, nevertheless, moreover, consequently, on the other hand) and challenge yourself to use different ones.
• Review your responses. We’ve provided the answers at the bottom of the page. After completing a section, compare your word choice with model answers to ensure it’s accurate in both meaning and tone.
• Use a timer. Aim to complete each section in a focused burst, just as you would under test conditions. Choose a pace (for example, 1 minute per question) and set a timer that forces you to keep moving.
• Revisit your weak areas. If you keep missing questions on linkers of contrast, for example, go back and review those grammar patterns using TOEFL flashcards.

Once you have finished all the questions, check your answers carefully and note why any were incorrect. Then, come back and try again. Consistent repetition is how you become fluent in writing.

And when you’re ready, check out our other free TOEFL and English practice resources:

• Listening practice videos
• Speaking practice prompts
• Reading practice question bank

Okay, ready to sharpen those writing skills? Let’s begin!

Complete the sentence.

Question 1

Complete with a linker to show cause and effect.

The company expanded rapidly. ____________ , profits increased.

Question 2

Complete with a linker to show cause and effect.

Demand increased sharply. ____________ , prices rose quickly.

Question 3

Complete with a linker to show contrast.

The reading claims the plan is effective. ____________ , the lecturer argues it is flawed.

Question 4

Complete with a linker to show contrast.

The team worked hard. ____________ , they did not win the game.

Question 5

Complete with a linker for concession.

The experiment failed. ____________ , the researchers learned valuable lessons.

Question 6

Complete with a linker for concession.

The weather was bad. ____________ , the event continued.

Question 7

Complete with a linker for the first point.

____________ , the reading states that the law is effective.

Question 8

Complete with a linker for the first point.

____________ , students should arrive on time.

Question 9

Complete with a linker to continue a sequence.

____________ , the lecturer explains the main issue.

Question 10

Complete with a linker to continue a sequence.

____________ , the results were analyzed.

Question 11

Complete with a linker to signal the final point.

____________ , it is clear that both sources disagree.

Question 12

Complete with a linker to signal the final point.

____________ , the evidence supports the claim.

Question 13

Complete with a linker to introduce an example.

____________ , many students prefer online classes.

Question 14

Complete with a linker to introduce an example.

____________ , the cost was too high.

Question 15

Complete with a phrase to give specific examples.

Many cities, ____________ Paris and London, have good transit.

Question 16

Complete with a phrase to give specific examples.

Several issues, ____________ pollution, were discussed.

Question 17

Complete with a linker to add information.

____________ , the new policy will help students.

Question 18

Complete with a linker to add information.

____________ , this solution is cost-effective.

Question 19

Complete with a simple word to add a similar point.

____________ , the plan benefits teachers.

Question 20

Complete with a simple word to add a similar point.

The program helps adults, ____________ .

Question 21

Complete with a linker to show contrast or concession.

 ____________ , some experts disagree.

Question 22

Complete with a linker to show contrast or concession.

________, the project succeeded.

Question 23

Complete with a phrase to present an opposing idea.

 ____________ , the lecturer disagrees.

Question 24

Complete with a phrase to present an opposing idea.

____________ , the reading supports the policy.

Question 25

Complete with a word to contrast two ideas in a sentence.

____________ the weather was bad, we went hiking.

Question 26

Complete with a word to contrast two ideas in a sentence.

____________ he was tired, he finished the test.

Question 27

Complete with a word to introduce a reason or cause.

The plan failed ____________ the costs were high.

Question 28

Complete with a word to introduce a reason or cause.

____________ it was raining, the event was canceled.

Question 29

Complete with a linker to show a result or consequence.

____________ , the project was abandoned.

Question 30

Complete with a linker to show a result or consequence.

____________ , the company lost money.

Question 31

Complete with a simple way to show a result.

____________ , fewer people use public transport.

Question 32

Complete with a simple way to show a result.

He was late, ____________ he missed the meeting.

Question 33

Complete with a word or phrase to express a condition.

____________ the weather is good, we will go outside.

Question 34

Complete with a word or phrase to express a condition.

____________ you study, you won't pass.

Question 35

Complete with a word to draw a comparison.

____________ , other countries have succeeded.

Question 36

Complete with a word to draw a comparison.

____________ , the results were positive.

Question 37

Complete with a phrase to emphasize a point.

____________ , recent studies confirm this trend.

Question 38

Complete with a phrase to emphasize a point.

____________ , the solution is simple.

Question 39

Complete with a word to generalize.

____________, the evidence supports the claim.

Question 40

Complete with a word to generalize.

____________, students prefer online learning.

Question 41

Complete with a phrase to summarize main points.

____________, both sources agree that change is needed.

Question 42

Complete with a phrase to summarize main points.

____________, the results are clear.

Need some hints? Check out 5 Tips For TOEFL Writing Practice for word banks that will help you complete these exercises.

Think of a synonym.

Question 43

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

 The professor disagrees with the reading’s argument.

 The lecturer ____________ the point made in the article.

Question 44

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

 Public transportation is cheaper than owning a car.

 Public transportation is a more ____________ option than owning a car.

Question 45

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

 The company’s profits increased because of higher sales.

 The company’s profits ____________ from higher sales.

Question 46

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence. 

The results were significant.

The results were ____________.

Question 47

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The professor explains the theory.

The professor ____________ the theory.

Question 48

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The lecture supports the reading’s opinion.

The lecture ____________ the viewpoint in the article.

Question 49

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The student completed the assignment.

The student ____________ the task.

Question 50

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The reading presents a solution.

The article ____________ an answer.

Question 51

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The professor’s explanation was clear.

The professor’s explanation was ____________.

Question 52

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The company reduced its expenses.

The company ____________ its costs.

Question 53

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The results show a positive trend.

The results ____________ upward movement.

Question 54

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The lecture contradicts the reading.

The lecture ____________ the article.

Question 55

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The university will offer new courses.

The university will ____________ new classes.

Question 56

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The number of students increased.

The number of students ____________.

Question 57

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The professor’s opinion is different from the author’s.

The professor’s opinion ____________ from the author’s.

Paraphrase these sentences using reported speech.

Question 58

Passage: Students who take notes by hand remember more information.

Question 59

Professor: “Writing things down helps people remember them longer.”

Question 60

Passage: The new policy will reduce pollution in urban areas.

Question 61

Professor: “This method is the most effective way to cut emissions.”

Question 62

Passage: Online courses are as challenging as traditional classes.

Question 63

Professor: “The new software will save students a lot of time.

Question 64

Passage: Banning cars from city centers would improve air quality.

Question 65

Professor: “Increasing taxes on cigarettes will lower smoking rates.

Question 66

Passage: The rise in tuition fees is due to higher administrative costs.

Question 67

Professor: Photosynthesis works in plants by turning sunlight into energy.

Contrast the main idea from the reading and the lecture.

Question 68

Reading: Hybrid cars are more efficient than regular cars.
Lecture: Hybrid cars are not always more efficient, especially in city driving.

Question 69

Reading: Online learning is as effective as classroom learning.
Lecture: Online learning lacks personal interaction.

Question 70

Reading: Raising the minimum wage will help workers.
Lecture: Raising the minimum wage could lead to job loss.

Question 71

Reading: Recycling is the best way to reduce waste.
Lecture: Reducing consumption is more effective than recycling.

Question 72

Reading: Raising the minimum wage will help workers.
Lecture: Raising the minimum wage could lead to job loss.

Show how the reading and lecture agree on the main idea.

Question 73

Reading: Regular exercise improves mental health.
Lecture: The lecturer says that physical activity reduces stress and anxiety.

Question 74

Reading: Renewable energy sources help reduce pollution.
Lecture: The lecturer explains that solar and wind power lower carbon emissions.

Question 75

Reading: Learning a second language improves cognitive skills.
Lecture: The lecturer claims that bilingualism enhances memory and attention.

Question 76

Reading: Deforestation contributes to climate change.
Lecture: The lecturer explains that cutting down trees increases greenhouse gases.

Question 77

Reading: Healthy diets reduce the risk of heart disease.
Lecture: The lecturer points out that eating fruits and vegetables lowers heart disease risk.

Brainstorming practice for TOEFL Task 2

In the TOEFL Writing section (and in many other academic or professional settings), you’ll be asked to give your opinion on a topic and support it with reasons and examples. This is known as Task 2, or the Independent Writing Task.

The questions below are designed to help you brainstorm ideas quickly for opinion essays like this. For each prompt, think of two strong reasons (and examples if possible) that could support your view. This stage is all about generating ideas, building vocabulary, and practicing logical thinking in English.

(You can expand on your work here by turning your reasons into full essays! But our answers will stick to some examples of strong reasons.)

For each of these, practice coming up with reasons that you might use to support your argument.

Question 78

Give two reasons why students should have part-time jobs.

Question 79

List two benefits of studying abroad.

Question 80

Name two reasons why exercise is important.

Question 81

Name two advantages of online learning.

Question 82

Give two reasons why teamwork is valuable.

Question 83

List two reasons why technology is important in education.

Question 84

Give two reasons why learning a second language is useful.

Question 85

List two reasons why reading is beneficial.

Question 86

Name two reasons why punctuality is important.

Question 87

Give two reasons why people prefer living in cities.

Question 88

Name two reasons why education is important.

Question 89

Give two reasons why people use social media.

Question 90

List two reasons why volunteering is beneficial.

How Did You Do? Let’s Find Out!

Writing Practice Answers

Now that you’ve completed all of the writing questions, here are some sample answers to guide you.

Because writing often allows for multiple correct responses, remember that your answers might be different and still perfectly valid, especially if they express the same meaning with clear grammar and logic. These examples simply show common, natural ways to complete or rewrite each sentence.

When reviewing your responses against these answers, check that your answers align with the meaning and grammar of these examples. Use these examples to compare, reflect, and refine your own writing style. Plus, if you notice words that you don’t normally use in these answers, you can add them to your repertoire. (Use our TOEFL flashcards to learn the connectors that you’re missing.)

We’ve also included the original prompts below each answer so you don’t have to keep scrolling back up the page.

Complete the sentence.

Question 1

Complete with a linker to show cause and effect.

The company expanded rapidly. ____________ , profits increased.

The company expanded rapidly. Therefore, profits increased.
The company expanded rapidly. Consequently, profits increased.

Question 2

Complete with a linker to show cause and effect.

Demand increased sharply. ____________ , prices rose quickly.

Demand increased sharply. As a result, prices rose quickly.
Demand increased sharply. Therefore, prices rose quickly.

Question 3

Complete with a linker to show contrast.

The reading claims the plan is effective. ____________ , the lecturer argues it is flawed.

The reading claims the plan is effective. However, the lecturer argues it is flawed.
The reading claims the plan is effective. Nonetheless, the lecturer argues it is flawed.

Question 4

Complete with a linker to show contrast.

The team worked hard. ____________ , they did not win the game.

The team worked hard. However, they did not win the game.
The team worked hard. Nevertheless, they did not win the game.

Question 5

Complete with a linker for concession.

The experiment failed. ____________ , the researchers learned valuable lessons.

The experiment failed. Nevertheless, the researchers learned valuable lessons.
The experiment failed. Nonetheless, the researchers learned valuable lessons.

Question 6

Complete with a linker for concession.

The weather was bad. ____________ , the event continued.

The weather was bad. Nevertheless, the event continued.
The weather was bad. However, the event continued.

Question 7

Complete with a linker for the first point.

____________ , the reading states that the law is effective.

First, the reading states that the law is effective.
To begin with, the reading states that the law is effective.

Question 8

Complete with a linker for the first point.

____________ , students should arrive on time.

To begin with, students should arrive on time.
First, students should arrive on time.
Firstly, students should arrive on time.

Question 9

Complete with a linker to continue a sequence.

____________ , the lecturer explains the main issue.

Next, the lecturer explains the main issue.
Then, the lecturer explains the main issue.
Secondly, the lecturer explains the main issue.
After that, the lecturer explains the main issue.

Question 10

Complete with a linker to continue a sequence.

____________ , the results were analyzed.

Then, the results were analyzed.
Next, the results were analyzed.
Secondly, the results were analyzed.
After that, the results were analyzed.

Question 11

Complete with a linker to signal the final point.

____________ , it is clear that both sources disagree.

Finally, it is clear that both sources disagree.
Lastly, it is clear that both sources disagree.
In conclusion, it is clear that both sources disagree.

Question 12

Complete with a linker to signal the final point.

____________ , the evidence supports the claim.

In conclusion, the evidence supports the claim.
Finally, the evidence supports the claim.
Lastly, the evidence supports the claim.

Question 13

Complete with a linker to introduce an example.

____________ , many students prefer online classes.

For example, many students prefer online classes.
For instance, many students prefer online classes.

Question 14

Complete with a linker to introduce an example.

____________ , the cost was too high.

For instance, the cost was too high.
For example, the cost was too high.

Question 15

Complete with a phrase to give specific examples.

Many cities, ____________ Paris and London, have good transit.

Many cities, such as Paris and London, have good transit.
Many cities, including Paris and London, have good transit.
Many cities, namely Paris and London, have good transit.

Question 16

Complete with a phrase to give specific examples.

Several issues, ____________ pollution, were discussed.

Several issues, including pollution, were discussed.
Several issues, such as pollution, were discussed.
Several issues, namely pollution, were discussed.

Question 17

Complete with a linker to add information.

____________ , the new policy will help students.

Furthermore, the new policy will help students.
Moreover, the new policy will help students.
In addition, the new policy will help students.

Question 18

Complete with a linker to add information.

____________ , this solution is cost-effective.

Moreover, this solution is cost-effective.
Furthermore, this solution is cost-effective.
In addition, this solution is cost-effective.

Question 19

Complete with a simple word to add a similar point.

____________ , the plan benefits teachers.

Also, the plan benefits teachers.

Question 20

Complete with a simple word to add a similar point.

The program helps adults, ____________ .

The program helps adults, too.
The program helps adults, as well.

Question 21

Complete with a linker to show contrast or concession.

 ____________ , some experts disagree.

However, some experts disagree.
Nevertheless, some experts disagree.
Nonetheless, some experts disagree.

Question 22

Complete with a linker to show contrast or concession.

________, the project succeeded.

Nevertheless, the project succeeded.
Nonetheless, the project succeeded.
However, the project succeeded.

Question 23

Complete with a phrase to present an opposing idea.

 ____________ , the lecturer disagrees.

On the other hand, the lecturer disagrees.
In contrast, the lecturer disagrees.

Question 24

Complete with a phrase to present an opposing idea.

____________ , the reading supports the policy.

In contrast, the reading supports the policy.
On the other hand, the reading supports the policy.

Question 25

Complete with a word to contrast two ideas in a sentence.

____________ the weather was bad, we went hiking.

Although the weather was bad, we went hiking.
Even though the weather was bad, we went hiking.
Though the weather was bad, we went hiking.

Question 26

Complete with a word to contrast two ideas in a sentence.

____________ he was tired, he finished the test.

Even though he was tired, he finished the test.
Although he was tired, he finished the test.
Though he was tired, he finished the test.

Question 27

Complete with a word to introduce a reason or cause.

The plan failed ____________ the costs were high.

The plan failed because the costs were high.
The plan failed since the costs were high.
The plan failed as the costs were high.

Question 28

Complete with a word to introduce a reason or cause.

____________ it was raining, the event was canceled.

Since it was raining, the event was canceled.
As it was raining, the event was canceled.
Because it was raining, the event was canceled.

Question 29

Complete with a linker to show a result or consequence.

____________ , the project was abandoned.

Therefore, the project was abandoned.
Consequently, the project was abandoned.
As a result, the project was abandoned.

Question 30

Complete with a linker to show a result or consequence.

____________ , the company lost money.

Consequently, the company lost money.
Therefore, the company lost money.

Question 31

Complete with a simple way to show a result.

____________ , fewer people use public transport.

Therefore, fewer people use public transport.
Consequently, fewer people use public transport.
As a result, fewer people use public transport.

Question 32

Complete with a simple way to show a result.

He was late, ____________ he missed the meeting.

He was late, so he missed the meeting.

Question 33

Complete with a word or phrase to express a condition.

____________ the weather is good, we will go outside.

If the weather is good, we will go outside.
Provided that the weather is good, we will go outside.

Question 34

Complete with a word or phrase to express a condition.

____________ you study, you won't pass.

Unless you study, you won't pass.

Question 35

Complete with a word to draw a comparison.

____________ , other countries have succeeded.

Similarly, other countries have succeeded.
Likewise, other countries have succeeded.

Question 36

Complete with a word to draw a comparison.

____________ , the results were positive.

Likewise, the results were positive.
Similarly, the results were positive.

Question 37

Complete with a phrase to emphasize a point.

____________ , recent studies confirm this trend.

In fact, recent studies confirm this trend.
Indeed, recent studies confirm this trend.
Clearly, recent studies confirm this trend.

Question 38

Complete with a phrase to emphasize a point.

____________ , the solution is simple.

In fact, the solution is simple.
Indeed, the solution is simple.
Clearly, the solution is simple.

Question 39

Complete with a word to generalize.

____________, the evidence supports the claim.

Overall, the evidence supports the claim.
In general, the evidence supports the claim.
On the whole, the evidence supports the claim.

Question 40

Complete with a word to generalize.

____________, students prefer online learning.

In general, students prefer online learning.
Overall, students prefer online learning.
On the whole, students prefer online learning.

Question 41

Complete with a phrase to summarize main points.

____________, both sources agree that change is needed.

To summarize, both sources agree that change is needed.
In summary, both sources agree that change is needed.
To sum up, both sources agree that change is needed.

Question 42

Complete with a phrase to summarize main points.

____________, the results are clear.

To summarize, the results are clear.
In summary, the results are clear.
To sum up, the results are clear.

Find a synonym.

Question 43

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

 The professor disagrees with the reading’s argument.

 The lecturer ____________ the point made in the article.

opposes | challenges

Question 44

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

 Public transportation is cheaper than owning a car.

 Public transportation is a more ____________ option than owning a car.

affordable | economical

Question 45

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

 The company’s profits increased because of higher sales.

 The company’s profits ____________ from higher sales.

resulted | arose

Question 46

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence. 

The results were significant.

The results were ____________.

important | notable

Question 47

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The professor explains the theory.

The professor ____________ the theory.

describes | clarifies

Question 48

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The lecture supports the reading’s opinion.

The lecture ____________ the viewpoint in the article.

agrees with | backs up

Question 49

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The student completed the assignment.

The student ____________ the task.

finished | accomplished

Question 50

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The reading presents a solution.

The article ____________ an answer.

offers | proposes

Question 51

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The professor’s explanation was clear.

The professor’s explanation was ____________.

understandable | easy to understand

Question 52

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The company reduced its expenses.

The company ____________ its costs.

lowered | cut

Question 53

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The results show a positive trend.

The results ____________ upward movement.

indicate | reveal

Question 54

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The lecture contradicts the reading.

The lecture ____________ the article.

opposes | challenges

Question 55

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The university will offer new courses.

The university will ____________ new classes.

provide | introduce

Question 56

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The number of students increased.

The number of students ____________.

grew | rose

Question 57

Think of a synonym to help paraphrase the first sentence.

The professor’s opinion is different from the author’s.

The professor’s opinion ____________ from the author’s.

differs | varies

Paraphrase these sentences using reported speech.

Question 58

Passage: Students who take notes by hand remember more information.

The passage suggests that students who take notes by hand remember more information.The passage suggests that students remember more when they write their notes manually.

Question 59

Professor: “Writing things down helps people remember them longer.”

The lecturer suggests that writing things down helps people remember them longer.The lecturer suggests that people retain information better by recording it in writing.

Question 60

Passage: The new policy will reduce pollution in urban areas.

The passage states that the new policy will reduce pollution in urban areas.The passage states that urban pollution will decrease as a result of the new policy.

Question 61

Professor: “This method is the most effective way to cut emissions.”

The lecturer states that this method is the most effective way to cut emissions.The lecturer states that using this approach is the best way to reduce emissions.

Question 62

Passage: Online courses are as challenging as traditional classes.

The passage claims that online courses are as challenging as traditional classes.The passage claims that distance learning is just as demanding as classroom instruction.

Question 63

Professor: “The new software will save students a lot of time.

The lecturer claims that the new software will save students a lot of time.The lecturer claims that students can complete their work faster with the new software.

Question 64

Passage: Banning cars from city centers would improve air quality.

The passage argues that banning cars from city centers would improve air quality.The passage argues that removing cars from downtown areas will make the air cleaner.

Question 65

Professor: “Increasing taxes on cigarettes will lower smoking rates.

The lecturer argues that increasing taxes on cigarettes will lower smoking rates.The lecturer argues that raising cigarette taxes will lead to fewer people smoking.

Question 66

Passage: The rise in tuition fees is due to higher administrative costs.

The passage explains that the rise in tuition fees is due to higher administrative costs.The passage explains that tuition increased because of more spending on administration.

Question 67

Professor: Photosynthesis works in plants by turning sunlight into energy.

The lecturer explains that photosynthesis is the process by which plants make their food.The lecturer explains that plants produce food through photosynthesis.

Contrast the main idea from the reading and the lecture.

Question 68

Reading: Hybrid cars are more efficient than regular cars.
Lecture: Hybrid cars are not always more efficient, especially in city driving.

While the passage states that hybrid cars are more efficient than regular cars, the lecturer argues that they are not always more efficient, especially in city driving.

Question 69

Reading: Online learning is as effective as classroom learning.
Lecture: Online learning lacks personal interaction.

Although the passage claims that online learning is as effective as classroom learning, the lecturer disagrees, saying it lacks personal interaction.

Question 70

Reading: Raising the minimum wage will help workers.
Lecture: Raising the minimum wage could lead to job loss.

The passage suggests that raising the minimum wage will help workers, but the lecturer states it could lead to job loss.

Question 71

Reading: Recycling is the best way to reduce waste.
Lecture: Reducing consumption is more effective than recycling.

Whereas the passage argues that recycling is the best way to reduce waste, the lecturer argues that reducing consumption is more effective.

Question 72

Reading: Public transportation is more convenient than driving.
Lecture: Public transportation can be unreliable.

The passage states that public transportation is more convenient than driving, but the lecturer points out that it can be unreliable.

Show how the reading and lecture agree on the main idea.

Question 73

Reading: Regular exercise improves mental health.
Lecture: The lecturer says that physical activity reduces stress and anxiety.

Both the passage and the lecturer agree that regular exercise improves mental health.
OR
Both sources support the idea that physical activity reduces stress and anxiety.

Question 74

Reading: Renewable energy sources help reduce pollution.
Lecture: The lecturer explains that solar and wind power lower carbon emissions.

The passage and the lecturer both state that renewable energy sources help reduce pollution.
OR
Both sources emphasize the importance of solar and wind power in lowering emissions.

Question 75

Reading: Learning a second language improves cognitive skills.
Lecture: The lecturer claims that bilingualism enhances memory and attention.

According to both the passage and the lecturer, learning a second language improves cognitive skills.
OR
Both sources claim that bilingualism enhances memory and attention.

Question 76

Reading: Deforestation contributes to climate change.
Lecture: The lecturer explains that cutting down trees increases greenhouse gases.

Both sources agree that deforestation contributes to climate change.
OR
Both the passage and the lecture explain how tree loss increases greenhouse gases.

Question 77

Reading: Healthy diets reduce the risk of heart disease.
Lecture: The lecturer points out that eating fruits and vegetables lowers heart disease risk.

The passage and the lecturer both support the idea that healthy diets reduce the risk of heart disease.
OR
Both sources point out the benefits of fruits and vegetables for heart health.

Brainstorming practice for TOEFL Task 2

Here are several reasons in support of each argument. You only had to write two, but we wanted to show you that there are many possible answers!

Question 78

Give two reasons why students should have part-time jobs.

• To gain work experience
• To earn extra money
• To learn responsibility
• To build confidence in real work situations

Question 79

List two benefits of studying abroad.

• Exposure to new cultures
• Improving language skills
• Making international friends
• Becoming more independent

Question 80

Name two reasons why exercise is important.

• It improves health
• It reduces stress
• It increases energy levels
• It strengthens your muscles and bones

Question 81

Name two advantages of online learning.

• Flexibility
• Access to a wide range of courses
• Ability to study from anywhere
• Often lower cost than traditional classes

Question 82

Give two reasons why teamwork is valuable.

• It improves communication
• It leads to better ideas
• It teaches cooperation
• It helps people solve problems faster

Question 83

List two reasons why technology is important in education.

• It provides access to information
• It supports interactive learning
• It helps students learn at their own pace
• It makes lessons more engaging

Question 84

Give two reasons why learning a second language is useful.

• It improves career opportunities
• It increases cultural understanding
• It helps with travel
• It strengthens memory

Question 85

List two reasons why reading is beneficial.

• It expands knowledge
• It improves vocabulary
• It develops imagination
• It improves focus

Question 86

Name two reasons why punctuality is important.

• It shows respect
• It helps manage time effectively
• It builds trust with others
• It reduces stress

Question 87

Give two reasons why people prefer living in cities.

• More job opportunities
• Better public services
• More entertainment options
• Convenient transportation

Question 88

Name two reasons why education is important.

• It opens career opportunities
• It promotes personal growth
• It helps people make informed decisions
• It reduces poverty

Question 89

Give two reasons why people use social media.

• To stay connected
• To share information quickly
• To relax and be entertained
• To follow news and trends

Question 90

List two reasons why volunteering is beneficial.

• It helps others
• It develops new skills
• It builds community connections
• It increases personal happiness

Other Free Resources to Help You Advance Your English Skills:

• Adaptive mobile flashcards for TOEFL vocab, grammar and pronunciation
• Adaptive mobile flashcards for advanced English learners 
• Listening practice videos for advanced English learners (great for TOEFL and IELTS practice)
• Speaking practice prompts for advanced English learners
• Reading practice question bank for advanced English learners