TOEFL | Writing
TOEFL Writing: Paraphrase Evidence Without Copying
Learn a reliable method for preserving meaning, changing sentence structure and using evidence naturally in your own writing.
TOEFL writing paraphrasing
Paraphrasing means expressing the same central meaning in your own structure and vocabulary. A useful paraphrase is accurate, concise and clearly connected to your argument. It does not simply replace every word with a synonym.
A four-step method
1. Find the claim
What is the writer saying, and what reason supports it?
2. Divide meaning units
Separate the main claim, reason, condition and result.
3. Change the structure
Combine, divide or reorder clauses while keeping the logic.
4. Check accuracy
Compare both versions. Make sure no idea has become stronger, weaker or different.
Worked example
Source: University libraries should extend weekend hours because students with jobs often cannot visit during the week.
Meaning units: longer weekend access | working students | limited weekday availability
Paraphrase: Since employment can prevent some students from using the library on weekdays, universities should provide longer opening hours at weekends.
The sentence order changes, but the recommendation and reason remain the same.
Avoid two common problems
| Problem | Example | Better choice |
|---|---|---|
| Copying the structure | University libraries ought to lengthen weekend hours because employed students often cannot go on weekdays. | Rebuild the sentence around the cause: “Since employment can prevent…” |
| Changing the claim | All working students are unable to use libraries during the week. | Keep the original limit: “some students” or “working students often…” |
Guided practice
Paraphrase each sentence. First write two or three meaning units, then create one new sentence.
- Online courses can improve access to education for learners who live far from major cities.
- Public transport reduces traffic only when it is reliable and affordable.
- Group projects help students practise collaboration, but unequal participation can create frustration.
Useful language
can make… more accessible | provided that… | one benefit is… while one difficulty is… | people living outside…
Quick accuracy test
- If the source says can improve, is always improves accurate?
- Which change is more important: replacing individual words or rebuilding the sentence?
- What must you check after writing a paraphrase?
- Paraphrase: “Frequent feedback helps learners identify problems early.”
Answers and possible models
- No. Always improves makes the claim much stronger.
- Rebuilding the sentence around the meaning.
- Check that the central claim, limits, cause and result are still accurate.
- “Learners can notice difficulties sooner when they receive feedback regularly.”
Models for guided practice
- People living far from large cities may gain better access to education through online courses.
- To reduce congestion, public transport must be both dependable and reasonably priced.
- Although group work develops collaboration skills, uneven contributions may frustrate students.
Writing task
Read this statement, wait ten seconds without looking at it, then write a two-sentence response.
Flexible schedules may increase employee satisfaction because workers can organise personal responsibilities more effectively.
Sentence 1 must paraphrase the idea accurately. Sentence 2 must agree or disagree and add one original reason or example.
Success check
- I preserved the strength of the original claim.
- I changed both structure and vocabulary.
- My second sentence adds a new idea.
Continue your exam practice
Explore more focused speaking and writing activities in the Hibiscus Teach Exams Hub.