Does anyone else keep searching how to improve TOEFL speaking score and then get the same vague advice? I was stuck at 22 for a while, and what finally helped me was being way more repetitive in practice.
I stopped doing random full tests and focused on 3 things:
- Template first so I never froze in the first 5 seconds
- Record every answer and listen only for pauses, not grammar mistakes
- Use super simple examples instead of trying to sound academic
The biggest change was timing. I practiced speaking with a timer every day until 45 seconds started feeling normal. Also, I learned that clear structure matters more than fancy vocabulary.
My rough formula became: opinion, 2 reasons, 1 tiny example, quick closing. It sounded basic, but my score jumped to 27.
If you're trying to improve your TOEFL speaking score, honestly record yourself more than you study notes.