Following a step-by-step preparation program for the TOEFL iBT such as the one in The Guidewill familiarize you with the test itself and with the tactics you need to raise your scores. The practice tests that are part of this program will help you polish your test-taking techniques.
But no matter how many test-taking tips you learn, you wont do well without a solid foundation of English-language study. The best way to increase your general knowledge of English is to use English as much as possible.
If you have the opportunity, taking English-language classes is an invaluable way to prepare for the test. In the past, students would sometimes say, "I cant go to English class today; I have to prepare for the TOEFL test！"This is no longer a good excuse. The TOEFL iBT tests a greater range of English-language skills, and any English class you take will help you prepare for the test. General English classes are now a form of TOEFL test preparation, and TOEFL test preparation classes will now teach more general English.
Conversation classes and presentation-skills classes will help you prepare for the Speaking Section of the test. Of course, reading classes can help you prepare for the Reading Section, listening classes for the Listening Section, and writing （composition） classes for the Writing Section. Although there is no special grammar section on the TOEFL iBT, structure （grammar） classes will be useful for both Writing and Speaking. Academic-skills classes can help you with note taking, reading and writing tips, and test-taking skills.
Non-language classes taught in English （business or biology, for example） are also a useful way to improve all of your skills. The TOEFL iBT was designed, after all, to measure your ability to do well in this type of class.
You can also improve your English outside of the classroom. Reading English- language books, magazines, and newspapers can improve your reading skills and build your vocabulary. So can visits to English-language Web sites. Going to lectures and movies, watching TV, and listening to news on the radio are ways to improve your listening skills. If you are living in an English-speaking country, take advantage of this fact and talk to the people around you as much and as often as you can. If possible, join a "conversation partners" program. If you are living in a non-English-speaking country, try to find people——native or non-native speakers—— that you can have conversations with.
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