TOEFLreading

TOEFL Complete the Words

Complete missing letters in words within a paragraph using vocabulary knowledge and context clues.

6-8 minutes
TOEFL iBT (Score 0-30)

What is this question type?

This task tests your vocabulary knowledge and ability to recognise words from partial information. You see a paragraph with words that have missing letters and must type the complete word. It assesses spelling accuracy, contextual vocabulary understanding, and your ability to use grammatical and semantic clues to identify the intended word.

Winning Strategy

  1. 1

    Read the entire paragraph first to understand the topic and context before filling in any words

  2. 2

    Look at the letters already provided and think about common English words that match the pattern

  3. 3

    Use the grammar of the sentence to narrow down options — is it a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb?

  4. 4

    Check that your completed word makes sense in the overall meaning of the paragraph

  5. 5

    If stuck, move on and come back — later words may give clues about earlier ones

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Misspelling the word even when you know what it is — accuracy counts

  • Not considering the grammatical form needed (plural, past tense, etc.)

  • Focusing only on the individual word without reading the surrounding context

  • Rushing through without double-checking each completed word

  • Confusing similar-looking words (e.g. "effect" vs "affect")

Tips for Success

  • Build vocabulary through extensive reading of varied English texts

  • Practice spelling common academic words — keep a spelling journal

  • Learn word families (succeed, success, successful, successfully) to recognise forms quickly

  • Pay attention to common letter patterns and combinations in English

  • Use process of elimination when multiple words could fit the letter pattern

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need perfect spelling?
Yes, you must spell the word correctly to receive credit for the answer.
How many words need completing?
Typically 5-7 words in a single paragraph, each with several letters missing.
What level of vocabulary is tested?
The vocabulary ranges from intermediate to upper-intermediate, often including academic and semi-formal words.

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TOEFL Complete the Words - Complete Study Guide for Test of English as a Foreign Language

This task tests your vocabulary knowledge and ability to recognise words from partial information. You see a paragraph with words that have missing letters and must type the complete word. It assesses spelling accuracy, contextual vocabulary understanding, and your ability to use grammatical and semantic clues to identify the intended word.

Step-by-Step Strategy

  1. Read the entire paragraph first to understand the topic and context before filling in any words
  2. Look at the letters already provided and think about common English words that match the pattern
  3. Use the grammar of the sentence to narrow down options — is it a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb?
  4. Check that your completed word makes sense in the overall meaning of the paragraph
  5. If stuck, move on and come back — later words may give clues about earlier ones

Avoid These Mistakes

  • Misspelling the word even when you know what it is — accuracy counts
  • Not considering the grammatical form needed (plural, past tense, etc.)
  • Focusing only on the individual word without reading the surrounding context
  • Rushing through without double-checking each completed word
  • Confusing similar-looking words (e.g. "effect" vs "affect")

Expert Tips

  • Build vocabulary through extensive reading of varied English texts
  • Practice spelling common academic words — keep a spelling journal
  • Learn word families (succeed, success, successful, successfully) to recognise forms quickly
  • Pay attention to common letter patterns and combinations in English
  • Use process of elimination when multiple words could fit the letter pattern

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need perfect spelling?

Yes, you must spell the word correctly to receive credit for the answer.

How many words need completing?

Typically 5-7 words in a single paragraph, each with several letters missing.

What level of vocabulary is tested?

The vocabulary ranges from intermediate to upper-intermediate, often including academic and semi-formal words.

Available in: TOEFL iBT (Score 0-30)

Time allowed: 6-8 minutes