The TOEFL Writing Template You Need for 2026

Part 1: Greeting. Start with an appropriate salutation that matches the recipient. Use 'Dear Professor [Last Name]' for faculty, 'Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name]' for formal contacts, or 'Hi [First Name]' only when the prompt clearly implies an informal relationship. The greeting sets the tone for your entire email, so match it to the context the prompt provides.

Part 2: Purpose Statement. In one or two sentences, state exactly why you are writing. This is the most important sentence in the email because it tells the reader what to expect. For example: 'I'm writing to request a change to my course schedule for the spring semester.' Avoid vague openings like 'I hope this email finds you well' — the TOEFL raters want to see clear, direct communication.

Part 3: Required Details. This is the body of your email, where you address each of the three details specified in the prompt. Dedicate one to two sentences to each detail. Use transition phrases like 'Additionally,' 'Regarding the second point,' or 'I should also mention' to signal that you are moving to a new detail. Raters check that all three details are present and clearly elaborated, so do not merge them into a single vague paragraph.

Part 4: Closing Request or Action. After covering the required details, wrap up by stating what you need from the recipient — whether that is a confirmation, a meeting time, permission, or additional information. A clear closing request shows communication competence and gives your email a sense of purpose.

Part 5: Sign-Off. End with an appropriate closing phrase such as 'Thank you for your time,' 'I appreciate your help,' or 'Best regards,' followed by your name. Skipping the sign-off makes the email feel abrupt and can cost you tone points. The entire email should flow naturally from greeting to sign-off in 150 to 200 words.

Part 1: State Your Position and Engage. Open by clearly stating whether you agree, disagree, or partially agree with one of the student responses. Reference a specific student by name and briefly paraphrase their argument so the rater can see you actually read and understood the discussion. For example: 'I mostly agree with Sarah's argument that remote learning increases flexibility, but I believe she overlooks an important drawback.' This opening accomplishes two things at once — it establishes your position and demonstrates engagement with the discussion.

Part 2: Acknowledge and Build. Briefly reference the professor's question or the other student's viewpoint to show that you have considered multiple perspectives. You do not need to summarize everything — a single sentence that connects your point to the broader discussion is enough. For example: 'As Professor Lee mentioned, access to technology varies significantly across regions, which is why I think cost is a factor we cannot ignore.'

Part 3: Support with a Specific Example. This is where your response gains depth. Provide a concrete example from your experience, studies, or general knowledge that directly supports your position. Vague statements like 'many people agree with this' do not earn high scores. Instead, write something like: 'In my first semester of online classes, I saved over two hours daily on commuting, which I used for additional study time.' Specific details make your argument credible and demonstrate the kind of elaboration raters look for.

Part 4: Conclude with a Clear Summary. End by restating your position in slightly different words and connecting it back to the original question. This does not need to be long — one or two sentences is enough. A clear conclusion signals that your response is complete and well-structured rather than a stream of unfinished thoughts. Aim for 120 to 180 words total to keep your response focused while showing adequate development.