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Can You Answer These 10 Real TOEFL Questions?
Can You ?
TOEFL
6/5/20263 min read
Think your English is good enough for the TOEFL ITP? Let's find out.
Many TOEFL test takers are surprised when they encounter actual TOEFL questions. The vocabulary seems familiar, the grammar looks simple, and the reading passages appear straightforward—until they see the answer choices.
The TOEFL ITP is designed to test your ability to understand academic English, recognize grammar patterns, and comprehend complex texts under time pressure. Even advanced English learners can make mistakes if they are not familiar with the test format.
Ready to challenge yourself? Try answering these 10 TOEFL-style questions before checking the explanations.
Question 1: Structure
The professor ______ the lecture before the students arrived.
A. begins
B. begun
C. had begun
D. beginning
Answer: C. had begun
The action happened before another action in the past ("the students arrived"), so the past perfect tense is needed.
Question 2: Structure
Neither the teacher nor the students ______ aware of the schedule change.
A. was
B. were
C. is
D. be
Answer: B. were
When using "neither...nor," the verb agrees with the noun closest to it. Since "students" is plural, the correct verb is "were."
Question 3: Vocabulary
The word "abundant" is closest in meaning to:
A. scarce
B. plentiful
C. dangerous
D. unusual
Answer: B. plentiful
"Abundant" means existing in large quantities.
Question 4: Reading
Many species adapt to environmental changes in order to survive.
The word "adapt" is closest in meaning to:
A. refuse
B. change
C. destroy
D. discover
Answer: B. change
To adapt means to adjust or change in response to new conditions.
Question 5: Structure
The new policy, along with several recommendations, ______ approved yesterday.
A. were
B. are
C. was
D. have been
Answer: C. was
The subject is "policy." The phrase "along with several recommendations" does not affect subject-verb agreement.
Question 6: Vocabulary
The scientist attempted to ______ the cause of the phenomenon.
A. determine
B. prevent
C. remove
D. avoid
Answer: A. determine
"Determine" means to discover or identify.
Question 7: Reading
According to the passage, ancient civilizations often developed near rivers because rivers provided water and transportation.
Why did ancient civilizations develop near rivers?
A. Rivers were warmer.
B. Rivers attracted animals.
C. Rivers provided water and transportation.
D. Rivers prevented wars.
Answer: C. Rivers provided water and transportation.
This answer directly matches the information stated in the passage.
Question 8: Structure
______ the weather was unfavorable, the event continued as planned.
A. Because
B. Although
C. Unless
D. During
Answer: B. Although
The sentence expresses contrast, making "although" the correct choice.
Question 9: Vocabulary
The word "significant" is closest in meaning to:
A. important
B. temporary
C. ordinary
D. hidden
Answer: A. important
In academic English, "significant" commonly means important or meaningful.
Question 10: Reading Inference
Researchers observed a steady increase in plant growth after introducing a new fertilizer.
What can be inferred?
A. The fertilizer may have contributed to the growth increase.
B. The fertilizer damaged the plants.
C. The researchers stopped the study.
D. Plant growth decreased.
Answer: A. The fertilizer may have contributed to the growth increase.
Inference questions require you to identify what is suggested by the information rather than what is directly stated.
How Did You Score?
9–10 Correct
Excellent. You have a strong foundation in TOEFL-style questions.
7–8 Correct
Good job. With consistent practice, you could achieve a competitive TOEFL score.
5–6 Correct
You understand basic concepts but should strengthen your grammar and vocabulary.
0–4 Correct
Don't worry. Most TOEFL beginners start here. The key is regular practice and exposure to academic English.
Why TOEFL Questions Feel Difficult
Many students know English well enough for everyday conversations but struggle with TOEFL questions because the test focuses on:
Academic vocabulary
Complex sentence structures
Reading comprehension
Inference skills
Time management
The more TOEFL questions you practice, the more familiar these patterns become.
Final Thoughts
TOEFL success is not just about knowing English. It is about understanding how the test works.
If you missed several questions, don't be discouraged. Every mistake helps you identify areas for improvement. Keep practicing grammar, expanding your vocabulary, and reading academic texts regularly.
The next time you encounter TOEFL questions like these, you'll be much more prepared—and much more confident.