TOEFL essay templates can help you answer both of the TOEFL writing questions. To write a strong TOEFL essay just fill in the blanks with the required information from your notes (in the integrated essay) or from your experiences (the independent essay). Note that I also have a set of TOEFL speaking templates. If you want more personalized help with your essays you can sign up for our TOEFL essay evaluation service.
Integrated Essay Template (Writing Question One)
The Introduction
No matter what question style is used, write your introduction using the following template:
- The reading and the lecture are both about _____.
- While the author of the article argues that ____, the lecturer disputes the claims mentioned in the article.
- His position is that _____.
The Body Paragraphs
Use the following templates for the body paragraphs:
- According to the reading _____.
- The article mentions that _____.
- This argument is challenged by the lecturer.
- He claims that _____.
- Additionally, he points out that ______.
–
- Secondly, the author suggests ______.
- The article notes that _____.
- The lecturer, however, asserts that ______.
- He goes on to say that ______.
–
- Finally, the author puts forth the idea that _____.
- The author contends that _____.
- In contrast, the lecturer’s stance is _____.
- He says that _____.
You don’t need a conclusion.
Your TOEFL integrated essay should be about 280 to 300 words. To see this template in use, check out my collection of sample essays.
Independent Essay Template (Writing Question Two)
Paragraph 1 (Introduction)
- Sentence One: Background
This is a broad sentence that introduces the general topic of the essay. Try a generalization like: “Most people in the world think that…“ - Sentence Two: The Main Point
This is your main argument. Start with “Personally, I believe…“ - Sentence Three: The Transition
Just use: “There are several reasons why I feel this way, which I will explore in the following essay.”
Paragraph Two (Body 1)
- Sentence One: The Topic Sentence
Summarize your first supporting reason. Try: “To begin with,…“. - Sentences Two and Three: The Explanation
Explain what you mean, without talking directly about a personal experience. - Sentence Four: The Transition
Just use: “My personal experience is a compelling example of this.“ - Sentence Six to End: The Personal Example
An example from your life that illustrates this argument. It should make up about 60% of the body paragraph.
Paragraph Three (Body 2)
- Sentence One: The Topic Sentence
Summarize your second supporting reason. Begin with “Furthermore,…“. - Sentences Two and Three: The Explanation
Explain what you mean. Shorten to one sentence if necessary. - Sentence Four: The Transition
Just use: “For instance,“ - Sentences Five to End: The Personal Example
An example from your life that illustrates this argument. Again, it should make up about 60% of the paragraph.
Paragraph Four (conclusion)
- Sentence One: Restate the Thesis
Paraphrase your thesis. Begin with “In conclusion, I strongly feel that…“. - Sentence Two: Restate the Two Reasons
Just use: “This is because ______, and _______.“
Your whole essay should be between 380 and 400 words. See this template in action by visiting our collection of sample essays.
Writing for Academic Discussion (Starting July 26. 2023)
- In my opinion, [respond directly to the question].
- I strongly agree with [student]’s idea that [mention one point made by the student].
- I’d add that [expand on the point with your own idea].
- [Other student] raised the relevant point that [mention one point made by the other student], but he/she didn’t mention that [challenge that point].
- For example [elaborate on your challenge with your own ideas].
Demonstration Video
Further Reading – Need More Help? Need Speaking Templates?
We also have in-depth guides to the independent and integrated writing tasks. Check them out! We also have TOEFL speaking templates.
Sign up for express essay evaluation today!
Submit your practice TOEFL essays for evaluation by the author of this website. Get feedback on grammar, structure, vocabulary and more. Learn how to score better on the TOEFL. Feedback in 48 hours.