Eight questions in about 60 minutes
The TOEIC Writing test has eight questions and takes about an hour. It moves from sentence-level accuracy to longer workplace writing. Each response is scored as part of the Writing test, which has its own 0–200 scale.
Three kinds of writing task
The question sequence changes the amount of language and planning each response needs.
Writing question sequence
Questions | Task | Main focus |
|---|---|---|
1–5 | Write one sentence based on a picture, using two supplied words or phrases | Accurate, natural sentence construction |
6–7 | Respond to a written request with an email | Relevant details, tone, and a complete response |
8 | Write an opinion essay | A clear position supported with reasons and examples |
Respect the time and purpose
ETS allots 10 minutes for each email response. The opinion essay is the longest task; ETS notes that an effective response will typically contain at least 300 words. Check the current instructions and respond to every part of the prompt.
The picture questions supply two words or phrases. You may change their forms and use them in any order, but both must appear appropriately in your sentence.
A practical review checklist
Before submitting a practice response, check that you answered the requested task, included the required details or words, and used a suitable tone. Then scan sentence boundaries, verb forms, agreement, spelling, and punctuation.
For email and essay tasks, make the connection between ideas easy to follow. Clear organisation helps a reader understand your answer without guessing what you mean.