Reading Comprehension Test in TOEFL iBT

Insert text questions in the TOEFL reading section ask you to determine where a given sentence would best fit within a paragraph or passage. You'll be provided with four possible positions, marked by black squares, where the new sentence can be inserted. By clicking on each square, the sentence will appear in that position, allowing you to check if it makes sense in the context. To answer these questions effectively, begin by carefully reading and understanding the new sentence. 

Look for key clues in the sentence itself, such as reference words (like "they," "it," or "this") that point back to something mentioned earlier, or transitions (like "furthermore" or "however") that suggest a continuation or contrast of ideas. These clues help you figure out how the new sentence should logically connect to the surrounding text. 

Additionally, pay attention to content clues, such as synonyms or repeated key phrases that writers often use to maintain cohesion within a text. Next, examine the context around each black square. 

Look at the sentences before and after the square to see if they relate to the new sentence in terms of meaning, transition, or reference words. Then, test the sentence in the position where you believe it fits best. 

Make sure it logically connects to both the preceding and following sentences. To confirm your choice, try placing the sentence in each available position and see where it makes the most sense in the flow of the paragraph. These questions require you to find the spot where the new sentence maintains the logical flow of ideas without disrupting connections between sentences.

 Incorrect answers often fail to establish these logical connections, separate sentences that should be linked, or misuse transitional elements. By carefully considering the context and the sentence's role, you can accurately determine its correct placement.

Paraphrase Questions

Paraphrase questions in the TOEFL reading section test your ability to recognize how a sentence from the passage can be restated in a different way while preserving its essential meaning. 

The correct answer usually reformulates the highlighted sentence by using synonyms or rephrasing ideas and may also change the sentence structure, such as by reversing the order of clauses. 

Additionally, correct answers often omit unnecessary details or examples while keeping the core meaning intact. In contrast, incorrect answers may reuse words from the original sentence but distort their meaning, sometimes even contradicting the original idea. 

Others may introduce information not present in the highlighted sentence. To effectively tackle paraphrase questions, start by carefully reading the highlighted sentence. If it includes reference words (like "this" or "it") pointing to earlier information, review the previous sentences to fully understand the context.