TOEFL Speaking Task 2 requires summarizing a campus-related discussion clearly and concisely. This guide, updated for 2025, breaks down exactly how to approach this task to deliver a strong response every time. You’ll get a TOEFL Speaking Task 2 template, an example Task 2 question and a sample response, and tips on note-taking, ensuring you’re fully prepared on test day.
Why Read This Guide?
✅ Get A TOEFL Speaking Template to deliver a well-composed answer for Task 2
✅ Learn key transition phrases to improve fluency
✅ See high-scoring Task 2 response examples for better understanding
✅ Avoid common mistakes that lower scores
✅ Find practical study and note-taking tips to enhance performance
Table of Contents
What Is TOEFL Speaking Task 2?
TOEFL Speaking Task 2 is part of the TOEFL Speaking section. It requires test-takers to listen to a conversation between two students about a campus-related topic and then summarize one student’s opinion. The question assesses your ability to summarize and integrate information from both the reading and listening sections.
👉 1️⃣ Let’s now dive into the first part of the strategy for approaching TOEFL Speaking Task 2: Breaking down the Task 2 format
Breaking Down The Task 2 Format
TOEFL Speaking Task 2 is an integrated task, so you must use information from the reading and listening to respond. You can take notes during both parts. Here’s how the task works:
- First, you will read a short passage (about 75–100 words) related to an issue on campus. It is a timed activity (45 or 50 seconds).
- Next, you will listen to a conversation between two students discussing the topic.
- In the conversation, one student will have a strong opinion about the issue.
- Then, you will be asked a question about the student’s opinion, the reasons they give for their opinion and how it relates to the issues in the reading.
- You will have 30 seconds of preparation time and 60 seconds to give your response.
👉 2️⃣ Now that you grasp the Task 2 format, the next section details note-taking—read it carefully.
How To Take Notes For TOEFL Speaking Task 2?
Taking clear and structured notes is essential for TOEFL Speaking Task 2 success. Without good notes, it can be difficult to remember important points, leading to an incomplete or disorganized response.
A solid note-taking approach helps you focus on the main ideas, understand the student’s opinion, and present a well-structured answer within the time limit.
Use the following note-taking structure to organize your response correctly:
| Section | Details |
| Passage | Identify the main point and write down the reasons for the change. |
| Conversation | Write down if the student agrees or disagrees and the reasons they give for their opinion. |
| Capture Key Details (reading and listening sections) | Focus on important points from the reading and listening sections. Identify the specific changes mentioned in the passage and the reasons supporting or opposing them from the conversation. This ensures that your response includes accurate and relevant content. |
An example of how to take notes for TOEFL Speaking Task 2 is covered later on in this guide.
👉 3️⃣ Let’s now look at the TOEFL Speaking Task 2 template for answering Task 2.
The TOEFL Speaking Task 2 Template
A speaking template can help you structure your response effectively to improve your overall score on the Speaking Test. The TOEFL Speaking Task 2 Template consists of three parts – an introduction, a body and a conclusion. Each step includes transitional phrases or sentences with timings for your responses. Follow this structure to deliver a complete, top-scoring response within 60 seconds for Task 2:
Part 1 – Introduction (15 seconds)
- “In the announcement/letter/article, [describe the change/decision/event].”
- “The reasons for this [state the reasons for the change/decision/event].”
Part 2 – Body (40 seconds)
- “The student agrees/disagrees with [change/decision/event].”
- “First, he/she states that [explain the first reason].”
- “Second, he/she argues that [explain the second reason].”
Part 3 – Conclusion ( 5 seconds)
- “In conclusion, the student agrees/disagrees with [change/decision/event] because [state the two reasons].”
👉 4️⃣ Next, you’ll see a TOEFL Speaking Task 2 practice question alongside a strong response that follows this guide’s template. Reviewing it will help you understand how to use the template effectively.
TOEFL Speaking Task 2 Question And Response Using The Template
Let’s now look at an example of a TOEFL Speaking Task 2 practice question and a high-scoring answer using the template in this guide.
Reading Passage 📖
New Library Booking System
Starting next semester, the university library will require students to book study rooms online at least 24 hours in advance. Previously, students could use study rooms on a first-come, first-served basis. The administration states that this change will reduce conflicts over room availability and ensure fair access for all students. Additionally, they believe the new system will help students plan their study sessions more effectively.
Listening Transcript 🔈
Man: Did you hear about the new library study room booking rule?
Woman: Yeah, and I don’t think it’s a good idea.
Man: Why not?
Woman: Well, first of all, sometimes students need a study room at the last minute, especially before exams. If everything has to be booked 24 hours in advance, it’ll be really inconvenient for those who need a quiet space unexpectedly.
Man: That’s true.
Woman: Also, just because someone books a room doesn’t mean they’ll use it. I bet some people will reserve rooms just in case and then not show up, leaving rooms empty while others actually need them. The first-come, first-served system was fairer because people who needed a room could just take one when available.
Question:
The woman expresses her opinion about the new library study room booking system. Summarize her opinion and explain how it relates to the issues presented in the announcement.
Example Notes For The “New Library Booking System” Question
Step 1: Passage Notes
- Main Change: Students must book library study rooms 24 hours in advance
- Reasons for Change:
- 1️⃣ Reduces conflicts over room availability
- 2️⃣ Helps students plan study sessions better
Step 2: Conversation Notes
- Student’s Opinion: Disagrees
- Reasons:
- 1️⃣ Need last-minute study room – inconvenient to book in advance, might struggle to get one
- 2️⃣ Unused reservations – Some may book – not show up, rooms empty, fairer system first come, first served
🚨 PLEASE NOTE – This note-taking example is for illustrative purposes only. During the test, you will not have the time to write out full words and sentences. It is, therefore, necessary that you come up with a note-taking system for the TOEFL Speaking Test.
High-Scoring Sample Response 🗣️
With the TOEFL Speaking Task 2 Template, we can structure the response as follows:
“In the announcement, the university plans to require students to book study rooms online at least 24 hours in advance. The reasons for this are the administration believes this system will reduce conflicts over room availability and help students plan their study sessions better.
The student, however, disagrees with this change. First, she argues that it is inconvenient for students who need a study room at the last minute, especially before exams. If everything must be booked in advance, students who need a quiet space unexpectedly will struggle. Second, she believes some students will reserve rooms but not use them. This means rooms could sit empty while others actually need them. She argues that the first-come, first-served system was fairer because students could use rooms when they became available.
In conclusion, the student disagrees with the proposed change because it will inconvenience students and may lead to wasted study spaces”
Wondering how your TOEFL Speaking answers are graded? Explore the official ETS TOEFL Speaking scoring rubric.
👉 5️⃣ Next, we’ll cover the typical mistakes to be aware of and avoid in TOEFL Speaking Task 2.
TOEFL Speaking Task 2. – Common Mistakes To Avoid
Here’s a list of common mistakes to avoid in TOEFL Speaking Task 2:
| Common Mistake | Description |
|---|---|
| Failing to Summarise the Student’s Opinion | The response should focus on the student’s viewpoint and reasons, not just the reading passage. |
| Including Too Many Details from the Reading | Only mention the main points of the reading to provide context. Avoid lengthy explanations. |
| Misrepresenting the Student’s Opinion | Make sure you accurately convey whether the student agrees or disagrees with the announcement. |
| Lack of Clear Organisation | Follow a structured approach: introduce the reading briefly, summarise the student’s opinion, and explain their reasons. |
| Speaking Too Slowly or Hesitating Frequently | Avoid long pauses or searching for words. Practice speaking smoothly and at a natural pace. |
| Ignoring Key Reasons or Examples | Ensure you include all of the student’s reasons, along with any supporting details. |
| Using Informal or Inappropriate Language | Keep your response academic and clear. Avoid slang or overly casual expressions. |
| Running Out of Time | Practise timing your response to fit within the 60-second limit without rushing or leaving ideas unfinished. |
| Lack of Transition Words | Use transition words like to connect ideas smoothly. |
👉 6️⃣ Next, we’ll explore effective study techniques to improve your TOEFL Speaking Task 2 performance.
How To Study For TOEFL Speaking Task 2?
Regular practice will help you respond clearly and confidently on test day. For a high score, you must understand the key points from the reading, recognise the speaker’s opinion and their reasons, and organize your response clearly. The table below outlines study strategies to help you develop these skills.
| Study Strategy | Description |
| Understand the Task Format | Review sample prompts to become familiar with the structure and timing of the task. |
| Practice Active Listening | Listen to TOEFL-style conversations and note key arguments. Pay attention to tone and emphasis, as these often reveal the speaker’s attitude. |
| Summarize the Reading Passage | Focus on the main point and supporting details rather than memorising everything. Identify the change being proposed and the reasons given. |
| Identify Speaker’s Opinion | Determine whether the speaker agrees or disagrees with the change. Note the reasons they provide, as these form the basis of your response. |
| Organize Your Response | Structure your answer with a clear introduction, a summary of the reading, and an explanation of the speaker’s opinion. Use transition words to connect ideas smoothly. |
| Practice with a Timer | Simulate test conditions by giving yourself 30 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to respond. This helps build confidence in delivering clear and structured answers within the time limit. |
| Record and Review Your Responses | Listen to your own answers to check clarity, pronunciation, and fluency. Identify areas to improve and change your approach as needed. |
👉 7️⃣ The following section includes FREE resources to assist you in preparing for the TOEFL Speaking Test.
Links And Resources To Increase Your TOEFL Speaking Score
Check out our other TOEFL prep guides to improve your score:
🔗 TOEFL Speaking Task 1 Guide – Learn a step-by-step strategy for Task 1 responses.
🔗 TOEFL Speaking Task 3 Guide – Connect reading and listening to deliver strong responses.
🔗 TOEFL Speaking Task 4 Guide – Summarise lectures with key points and examples.
🔗 TOEFL Test Prep Hub – Explore our blog for expert tips and strategies.
👉 8️⃣ Read the Key Takeaways Summary for valuable pointers, and browse the FAQs for additional help with TOEFL Speaking Task 2.
Summary: Key Takeaways
Here are the main things to remember about approaching TOEFL Speaking Task 2 from this guide. Follow these tips for a high score on this task.
- TOEFL Speaking Task Two involves summarizing a campus-related passage and a conversation.
- Use a structured TOEFL Speaking Task 2 Template to organize your response.
- Take notes to identify the main ideas and reasons.
- Include transitional phrases for a smooth response.
- Your score depends on accuracy, fluency, and organization.
- Practice regularly and time your responses for test-day readiness.
FAQs- TOEFL Speaking Task 2
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about TOEFL Speaking Task 2. Read this section to find answers and more valuable tips to help you prepare.
What Types Of Topics Are Covered In TOEFL Speaking Task 2?
Topics are related to university life, such as changes to campus facilities, class schedules, university policies, or student services.
Should I Include Details From Both The Reading And The Conversation For Task 2?
Yes, but with a clear focus. Your response should primarily summarise the student’s opinion and reasons from the conversation, as this is the key part of the task. However, you should briefly introduce the main point of the reading passage to provide context. Avoid unnecessary details from the reading—just enough to show how it relates to the student’s perspective.
How Can I Effectively Structure My Response For Task 2?
Start with a brief summary of the announcement. Then, state the student’s opinion, followed by the reasons they provide. A separate conclusion isn’t required, but ending with a brief summary of the student’s stance can make your answer more cohesive.
Is it Necessary To mention All The Details From The Reading Passage For Task 2?
No, talking about the student’s opinion and their reasons is more important. Summarize the reading passage concisely.
Can I Take Notes During The Reading And Listening Sections For TOEFL Speaking Task 2?
Yes, taking notes is encouraged to help organize your response and ensure you capture key points.
What Are Common Challenges For TOEFL Speaking Task 2?
Managing time effectively, capturing the main ideas without unnecessary details, and maintaining clear and coherent speech.
How Is TOEFL Speaking Task 2 Scored?
Responses are evaluated based on delivery, language use, and topic development. Clarity, accuracy, and completeness are key factors.
How Can I Practice For TOEFL Speaking Task 2?
Practice answering TOEFL Speaking Task 2 questions according to the time limit, record and review your responses, and seek feedback to improve.
✅ We hope this 8-Step TOEFL Speaking Task 2 Answer Guide was helpful! Explore our blog, TEST PREP HUB, for FREE expert articles and resources to help you prepare for the TOEFL Speaking test with confidence.