The TOEFL Reading section can be challenging, especially if you have a busy schedule. The key is to practice smart, not just long hours. At My Planet English (MPE), we guide students to use effective strategies that maximize comprehension and speed even with limited study time.

1. Skim Before Reading

• Quickly scan headings, subheadings, and keywords

• Get an overview of the passage

• Helps focus on important information

2. Focus on Keywords

• Look for names, dates, numbers, and unique terms

• Keywords help locate answers faster without reading every word

3. Practice Active Reading

• Ask questions while reading: What is the main idea? What is the author’s opinion?

• Take short notes or highlight key points

• Improves retention and understanding

4. Learn Common Question Types

• Main idea

• Detail

• Inference

• Vocabulary in context

• Rhetorical purpose

Tip: Familiarity with question types saves time and reduces errors.

5. Time Management

• Don’t spend too long on one passage

• Allocate roughly 20 minutes per passage

• Move on and return to difficult questions if time allows

6. Build Vocabulary Efficiently

• Focus on academic words and phrases often used in TOEFL texts

• Use apps like Quizlet or Memrise for daily review

• Understanding vocabulary reduces guesswork and reading time

7. Practice with Real TOEFL Passages

• Use official TOEFL practice tests

• Simulate exam conditions to improve speed and accuracy

• Helps you adapt to question formats and difficulty

Final Thoughts

Busy students can still excel in TOEFL Reading by using smart strategies: skimming, keyword focus, active reading, and timed practice. Consistency and targeted practice are more effective than long, unfocused study sessions.

✅ At My Planet English, we help learners maximize results in limited time, ensuring faster progress and higher TOEFL scores.