- Suzu
- TOEFL guides
- 2026 format
- Read in Daily Life
Reading task
TOEFL Read in Daily Life (2026): format, tips and an example
Quick answer
You read everyday texts of about 15–150 words, like notices, menus, emails, schedules and receipts. Each one has two or three multiple-choice questions.
- 15–150words per text
- 2–3questions each
- ~30 minfor all of Reading
How to do it well
- Read the question firstThen scan the text for the one detail it asks about.
- Use headings and numbersDates, prices and bold words help you find answers fast.
- Ask why it was writtenMany questions test the main purpose or what the writer means.
Example
Notice
LIBRARY NOTICE: The third-floor study rooms are closed for repairs from March 3 to March 7. To book a room on the second floor, ask at the front desk. Quiet hours start at 8 p.m.
What should a student do to get a study room on March 5?
Answer choices
- Go to the third floor
- Ask at the front desk
- Come after 8 p.m.
- Book online
The notice says second-floor rooms are booked at the front desk.
Our own example, written to match ETS's format. It isn't an official test question.
Common mistakes
- Reading every word. Scan for what the question asks.
- Picking a true but unrelated fact. “Quiet hours start at 8 p.m.” is in the text but doesn't answer this question.
- Missing informal language. Texts and posts use short forms and idioms.
What ETS looks for
- ETS lists 12 formats, from posters and menus to invoices and chains of text messages.
- The questions test the main purpose, details, inferences and skimming and scanning.
- Reading adapts: how you do on part 1 decides if part 2 is easier or harder.
Source: ETS's content and structure page and Updated TOEFL iBT Test Overview.
Questions
How long are Read in Daily Life texts?
About 15 to 150 words. Longer texts get three questions and shorter ones get two.
What kinds of texts appear?
Everyday ones: notices, menus, ads, forms, schedules, receipts, emails, web pages, social media posts and text messages.
Practice for the 2026 TOEFL in 20 minutes a day
Short daily plans and AI feedback on your speaking and writing. Free for members, by invite only, on iPhone and Android.
Request your invite