Pacing and Note-Taking Strategies – TOEFL Listening

The TOEFL listening exam can be quite challenging if improperly mismanaged. Let’s take a quick look at how you can succeed in the exam by observing a few simple techniques listed below.

Time Allocation : The listening test has a total of 41 minutes allocated to it. The total time given is then broken down to cover the 3 sections of the test. Below is how the time is allocated:

•                     3.5 minutes are for instructions

•                     16.5 minutes are for answering 28 minutes

•                     21 minutes are for listening to the audio

Do not spend more time than necessary on each section of the listening test.

Pacing in A TOEFL Listening Test : The audio is only played once, therefore, you need to be an attentive listener and avoid any distractions. When taking down notes, you have to be fast to avoid falling behind and missing the rest of the audio so you do not fall behind in the dialogue

Note-Taking Strategies :- 

• Take Note of The Topic : It is important that you only take down what is important to save. Taking note of the topic will give you an idea of what the audio will be about. This will help you have an idea of what to expect and the main points that may come along. Once you take note of the topic, you will be able to take down the most important points. This will aid you in not lagging.
  
  
• Take Notes as You Listen : This will save you a lot of time, reduce errors, and ensure that important information is not missed. As you listen, you can take down notes in a well-organized manner. These notes have to be neatly written so that you are able to go back to them as you answer questions. Do not wait for the audio to finish and then start taking notes as you might not be able to recall the whole dialogue. Key information might be missed and a lot of time will be wasted.
  
  
• Take Note of Only The Important Points : Take short notes that are sufficient for you to remember the whole dialogue. The more you write, the more you will lose out on the audio. Short notes are always easy to refer to and will always jog your memory as to what was said in the dialogue. You can always use symbols in place of other words as long as you will remember what they mean at the end of the dialogue.
  
  
• Take Note of Who Says What : The best way to remember this would be to take notes in a column way. Create columns based on the number of speakers in that dialogue. You can then take down notes based on who has said what, recording t in each respective column. This will increase accuracy and speed when answering questions.
  
  
• Transitional Words and Phrases In Dialogues : Pay attention to the words such as ‘To begin with’, ‘secondly’, they assist in finding out your position in the dialogue. You will be able to identify a new point or idea that is being introduced in the dialogue and then you can organize your points in chronological order. 
  
  

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