The TOEFL iBT Writing section tests your ability to write essays in English similar to those that you would write in college courses. During the test, you will write two essays.

First is the integrated Essay. In the integrated essay you will first read an academic passage and then you will listen to a lecture on the same topic. You may take notes as you read and listen, but notes are not graded. You may use your notes to write the essay. The reading passage will disappear while you are listening to the lecture, but the passage will return to the screen for reference when you begin to write your essay. You will have 20 minutes to plan, write, and revise your response. Typically, a good essay for the integrated topic will require that you write 150-225 words.

Next is the Independent Essay. In the independent essay you will read a question on the screen. It usually asks for your opinion about a familiar topic. You will have 30 minutes to plan, write, and revise your response. Typically, a good essay for the independent topic will require that you write 300-350 words.

A clock on the screen will show you how much time you have left to complete each essay.