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- Listen and Choose a Response
Listening task
TOEFL Listen and Choose a Response (2026): format, tips and an example
Quick answer
You hear one short line from a conversation, like a question or a comment. You pick the best reply from four choices.
- 1line to hear
- 4replies to choose from
- ~29 minfor all of Listening
How to do it well
- Catch the type of lineIs it a question, an invitation, a complaint or news?
- Think of a natural replyBefore the choices, ask what a person would really say.
- Accept indirect answers“I have to work tonight” is a polite no.
Example
You hear
“Are you coming to the study group later?”
Answer choices
- It was really helpful.
- Sorry, I have to work tonight.
- Yes, I studied there.
- At the library on Main Street.
B answers the invitation. A is about the past, and D answers where, not whether.
Our own example, written to match ETS's format. It isn't an official test question.
Common mistakes
- Picking a choice that repeats a word you heard. “Studied” sounds close but answers the wrong question.
- Wanting a direct yes or no. Real replies are often indirect.
- Missing the tone. Polite, surprised or annoyed lines need replies that fit.
What ETS looks for
- The lines are short and everyday, and test both literal and implied meaning.
- You may hear North American, British, Australian or New Zealand accents.
- Listening adapts: part 1 decides how hard part 2 is.
Source: ETS's content and structure page and Updated TOEFL iBT Test Overview.
Questions
How many choices are there?
Four.
Can I replay the line?
No. You hear it once, so focus on the speaker's purpose.
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