TOEFL iBT · Task guide 4 · 4 min read
TOEFL iBT Writing tasks: Build a Sentence, Write an Email and Academic Discussion
The three Writing tasks on the updated TOEFL iBT with original examples, a simple structure for each response and tips for typing under time pressure.
How the Writing section works
The Writing section measures how clearly and accurately you write English for study. You type every response on a computer keyboard. ETS says scoring focuses on how clearly and effectively you communicate your ideas, not on a perfect first draft, and writing assistance software is not allowed.
| Task | What you do |
|---|---|
| Build a Sentence | Arrange words or phrases into a correct sentence or question |
| Write an Email | Write an email for an academic or social situation |
| Write for an Academic Discussion | State and support your opinion in an online class discussion |
ETS lists 12 items and about 23 minutes of base time; timing can vary. According to its specification, 10 of the items are Build a Sentence and there is one Email and one Academic Discussion. The Writing section is linear, so everyone on a given form gets the same tasks. See the TOEFL iBT Writing section page for the official description.
Build a Sentence
You get jumbled words or phrases and put them in an order that makes a complete, grammatical sentence or question. It tests your grasp of English sentence structure.
Our own example (not an ETS item). Put in order: did / when / the / you / library / visit
A correct answer: "When did you visit the library?" The question word comes first, then the auxiliary verb, then the subject, then the main verb and object.
Tips
- Find the main verb and subject first.
- Look for question words, auxiliaries ("did", "have") and linking words.
- Check capital letters, word order and the final punctuation mark.
- Move on quickly if stuck. These items are short.
Write an Email
You write an email in an academic or social situation, for example making a request, giving information or suggesting a solution. ETS says the task measures whether you write clearly, stay on topic and follow basic writing conventions.
Our own example prompt (not an ETS item): You missed a lecture because you were ill. Write an email to your lecturer. Explain what happened, ask for the notes and suggest when you could meet.
A simple structure:
- Greeting: "Dear Professor,"
- Purpose: "I am writing to explain why I missed Tuesday's lecture."
- Details: say what happened and what you need.
- Action: suggest a time and ask for a reply.
- Closing: "Thank you for your help. Kind regards, ..."
Tips
- Cover every point in the prompt. Tick them off as you write.
- Match the tone to the reader: polite and clear for a lecturer, friendlier for a classmate.
- Keep sentences simple and correct rather than long and risky.
Write for an Academic Discussion
You read a short online discussion in a class and contribute your own view. ETS says the task measures your ability to develop ideas, respond to others' viewpoints and write in an academic tone.
Our own example prompt (not an ETS item): A lecturer asks whether universities should replace some exams with projects. One student says projects show real skills. Another says exams are fairer. Add your view.
A sample plan:
- Position: "I think projects should replace some exams."
- Reason with example: projects let students show research and teamwork, which a timed paper cannot.
- Response to others: agree with one student and politely add or challenge a point.
- Closing line: restate your position briefly.
Tips
- State your opinion in the first sentence.
- Give at least one clear reason and an example.
- Refer to what the others said, using phrases such as "I agree with the first student that..." or "However, ...".
- Leave a minute to check spelling and grammar.
Time and typing
- Practice typing in English with a timer. Speed and accuracy both matter.
- Plan for a minute before you start each longer response.
- Do not copy phrases from the prompt without changing them.
Exam tip: a short, well-organised response that answers the question beats a long, loose one.
Key points
- Three tasks: Build a Sentence, Write an Email, Write for an Academic Discussion.
- 12 items and about 23 minutes of base time; the section is linear.
- Responses are typed; no writing assistance software is allowed.
- Official description: ets.org Writing section.
Back to the TOEFL hub for practice tests and the other section guides.