When taking the TOEIC exam, there are times when you’re not entirely sure of the right answer. In those moments, understanding how to guess strategically can make a big difference in your final score. This guide will introduce you to several effective ways to guess answers in TOEIC using clear examples and practical strategies.
1. Pay Attention to Sentence Structure
In TOEIC, especially in the Listening and Reading sections, the grammar and structure of the sentence can often give you clues about the correct answer. Look for subject-verb agreement, verb tense, and other basic grammatical rules. If an answer choice seems grammatically incorrect or awkward, it’s likely not the answer.
Example Sentence:
- She was ____ at the meeting when the topic was introduced.
- a) presented
- b) presiding
- c) present
- d) presence
In this case, you know that “presence” (d) is a noun, and the blank requires an adjective or verb. “Present” fits correctly in both meaning and form.
Expert Tip: “Always aim to eliminate choices that just don’t fit grammatically. This simple step can often narrow down your options significantly.” — Quang Minh, TOEIC Instructor.
For more strategies on this, check out TOEIC preparation advice for high score.
2. Utilize Word Forms and Parts of Speech
Sometimes, understanding the part of speech required (noun, verb, adjective, adverb) can greatly help in guessing the answer. This is particularly useful in the Reading section. If you’re faced with a tricky question, identifying which word form fits in the sentence is an excellent guessing method.
Example Sentence:
- The company has shown great ____ in its international business.
- a) success
- b) succeed
- c) successor
- d) successful
The word “great” often modifies a noun, so the correct answer here is (a) “success.”
Expert Tip: “Questions typically follow patterns. Once you understand how TOEIC tests word forms, it’s easier to spot the right choice.” — Thảo Nguyễn, experienced TOEIC trainer.
Additionally, for learners aiming to boost their score quickly, you can refer to ways to guess answers in TOEIC in one week.
3. Rely on Contextual Clues
Even if you’re unsure, looking at the surrounding words or sentences can give you hints. Oftentimes, a TOEIC question will provide context that can help you deduce the correct word or idea.
Example Sentence from the Listening Section:
- The company’s sales were exceptionally high last quarter. In fact, this year they’ve reached an __ level.
- a) international
- b) unprecedented
- c) informative
- d) difficult
Here, “exceptionally high” gives a positive context, so you can eliminate negative or unrelated words (like “difficult”). “Unprecedented” fits the idea of something notably high and extraordinary.
4. Be Aware of Distractors
TOEIC likes to include “distractors” – options that are designed to mislead you. These might be words similar in sound or meaning but incorrect in context. Be extra cautious of these traps, especially in the Listening section.
Example Sentence:
- The event has been postponed to ____. We apologize for the inconvenience caused.
- a) another day
- b) on holiday
- c) the next week
- d) every day
A student might quickly pick “on holiday” because it sounds familiar, but it doesn’t match the logic of the sentence. The best answer is “another day,” as it properly fits the sentence contextually.
5. Use the Process of Elimination
One of the best strategies for guessing answers in TOEIC is to eliminate the most unlikely answers. If you can reduce your choices from four to two, you already have a 50% chance of guessing correctly. Scan through the answers and cross out any that seem incorrect either grammatically or contextually.
Example Sentence:
- We will have the report ready by ____.
- a) Tuesday
- b) quicker
- c) yesterday
- d) annually
You can immediately eliminate “yesterday” and “annually” as they do not fit with “by” in this context. Left with two choices, “Tuesday” makes the most sense.
6. Don’t Always Rely on Your First Instinct
Sometimes in TOEIC, your first guess might be wrong. This is especially true if you answer quickly without thoroughly analyzing the question. If you’re unsure, use a bit more time to review all available options.
Expert Tip: “Always read through all the options at least once, even if you think you know the answer immediately.” — Thủ Đức, TOEIC Teacher.
Conclusion
Knowing how to guess effectively on the TOEIC test can be a lifesaver in tough situations. By familiarizing yourself with strategies such as using sentence structure, contextual clues, and the process of elimination, you can increase your chances of selecting the correct answer, even when unsure.
For a more comprehensive guide on TOEIC, see tips for TOEIC in a month or how to improve TOEIC for high score.
Frequently Asked Questions about Guessing on the TOEIC
1. Is it okay to skip questions on the TOEIC?
It’s best not to leave any questions unanswered since there’s no penalty for wrong answers. Use the strategies above to guess smartly.
2. Can I rely on guessing alone to pass the TOEIC?
No. While guessing can help in uncertain moments, proper preparation and understanding of the test format are essential for passing.
3. How can I improve my chances of guessing correctly?
Focus on knowing sentence structures, word forms, context, and using the elimination method.
4. Which section is harder to guess, Listening or Reading?
The Listening section might be more challenging to guess since it relies heavily on context and speed, whereas the Reading section allows more time for thought.
5. What are some practical TOEIC study tips for working professionals?
For busy learners, reviewing common TOEIC vocabulary and practicing a few questions daily can improve performance over time. You can also check out tips for TOEIC for intermediate level to succeed efficiently.
