Reading Section at a Glance
This is the first section of the TOEFL iBT. It measures your ability to understand university-level academic texts. Here's a breakdown of the current format.
Passages
2
Approx. 700 words each
Total Questions
20
10 questions per passage
Total Time
35
minutes for the section
Scoring
0-30
No penalty for wrong answers
Recommended Time per Question Type
Time management is critical. While the average time is 1:45 per question, some types are faster than others. This chart shows the recommended maximum time to spend on each type.
Master the 10 Question Types
The Reading section uses 10 distinct question types. Click on a card below to learn the strategy, see an example, and get expert tips for each one.
Strategies for Peak Performance
Beyond knowing the questions, top scores come from a smart approach to reading, time management, and skill building. Explore these advanced strategies to maximize your score.
Strategic Reading Approaches
There's no single 'best' way to read. Experiment with these methods during practice to find what works for you.
The Art of Time Management
With only 35 minutes, effective time management is non-negotiable. It’s about strategic allocation, not just speed.
- ✓The 18/17-Minute Rule: Divide the test in half. Spend ~18 minutes on the first passage and ~17 on the second. This creates a mental checkpoint.
- ✓Never Skip, Always Guess: There's no penalty for wrong answers. If stuck for over 2 minutes, eliminate, guess, note the question number, and move on.
- ✓Use the "Review" Button Strategically: If you finish early, use your notes to return directly to the questions you were unsure about.
Building Foundational Skills
Long-term success depends on core skills. Focus on these areas in your preparation.
- 📚Cultivate Academic Vocabulary: Actively learn words from the Academic Word List (AWL) and practice passages. A strong vocabulary is the foundation of comprehension.
- 📖Use Official ETS Materials: Prioritize practice with real, retired questions from ETS (Official Guides, TestReady portal). This is the best way to simulate the real test's difficulty and style.
- ⏱Practice Under Timed Conditions: Answering questions is one skill; answering them under pressure is another. Regular timed simulations are essential for building stamina and refining your pacing.