TOEFL Reading Tips 2025 - How to Tackle Long Passages

Many test takers find Reading section of TOEFL challenging because of its length and information on passages. But with the right strategies and consistent practice, you can easily build the confidence to handle even the toughest reading questions.

TOEFL Reading section requires you to engage with detailed passages and build strong comprehension skills. With the right TOEFL preparation and smart strategies, you will be able to perform in the reading section confidently.

In this article, we will take you through some of the key techniques that can help you navigate long reading passages with essential prep material, guidance, and practice.

About Reading on TOEFL

TOEFL Reading section check your ability to read and understand academic texts in English. It is similar to situations that you might come across at a university abroad. Each passage is followed by a set of questions. These questions test your reading skills.

The passages can be on any topic. It is very common for students to feel that lengthy passages make them difficult. But always remember, tis not about how much you know about the topic. It is about how well you can understand and process the information provided in the passage.

Focus on What Matters

One of the most common mistakes students make is trying to read every single word. TOEFL Reading test is not designed to test your ability to memorise everything. Instead, practice TOEFL reading strategies like skimming and scanning. Identify structure of passage, try to figure out the main message. Locate important ideas.

You should focus on getting the sense of what the passage is about. This will help you later when you start answering questions. You should practise and focus on using TOEFL iBT practice tests to master this skill.

Pay Attention to Paragraph Structure

Most TOEFL Reading passages are organized logically in a pattern like Intro paragraph, which is the main topic and then the subtopics, lastly the conclusion. Take pointers from each paragraph and strategically understand purpose of the reading passage.

Make mental notes

As you read, make mental notes about the general purpose of each paragraph. This simple habit will save your time when you need to locate specific information for certain TOEFL reading questions. This targeted reading approach helps you stay efficient.

Build Your Vocabulary

You do not need to know all words in the passage, but it is easier to attempt questions, once you have a solid TOEFL vocabulary. Once you see words you recognise while reading, you will spend less time on meaning of the paragraph.

There are a number of resources and videos of TOEFL preparation available on official ETS website. If you spend time building your vocabulary with practice, this can really help you. ETS also offers free sample test for practice.

Practice with Right Prep Material

Finally, nothing beats practice. But not just any practice, you need to focus on quality practice with right prep material. Focus on ETS official reading resources like TOEFL TestReady, TOEFL Beginner’s Guide, and TOEFL Sampler to improve skills.

ETS, conducting body of TOEFL exam has made a number of free and paid TOEFL study materials available to test takers. These resources are designed to mirror real test experience. It will allow you to practice reading passages that are similar in style, length, and TOEFL exam pattern to what you will encounter on exam day.