Preference (Multiple Options)

Overview

In the independent writing task section of the TOEFL exam, test takers may encounter essay prompts that require them to express their preference among multiple options. These prompts typically present a scenario or a set of choices and ask test takers to state their opinion and provide reasons for their preference.

When responding to this type of essay question, it is important to carefully consider each option and evaluate the merits of each choice. Test takers should take into account their personal interests, values, and experiences to form a well-reasoned preference. The key is to provide clear and logical explanations for the chosen option.

For example, an essay prompt might present several options for spending a free weekend, such as visiting a museum, going hiking, or attending a concert. In this case, test takers would need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option and then express their preference based on personal interests, preferences, and relevant experiences. They can discuss factors like their love for art, enjoyment of outdoor activities, or appreciation for live music to support their choice.

In these essays, it is essential to provide a clear thesis statement that states the preferred option and then provide supporting reasons and examples to justify the preference. Each reason should be well-developed and explained in detail to showcase the ability to think critically and present a coherent argument.

To structure the essay, test takers can use a paragraph for each option, discussing the pros and cons before concluding with their preferred choice. Additionally, they should use appropriate transitions to ensure smooth flow between paragraphs and ideas.

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Our neighbors affect our lives in many ways. In your opinion, what type of neighbor is the best to have?

  • someone who is quiet

  • someone who we are similar to

  • someone who is supportive

Use specific details and examples in your answer.

When you face a difficult problem in life, what do you feel is the best way to solve it?

  • asking someone with more experience for advice about the problem

  • finding information about the problem using the Internet

  • taking a long time to think about the problem

Use specific details and examples in your answer.

In general, people are living longer now. Which of the following do you think accounts for this phenomenon?

  • Technological improvements

  • Changes to education systems

  • Improvements to our diets

Use specific details and examples in your answer. You may choose more than one cause.

People have a lot of opinions about the value of advanced education. Which do you think is the most important reason to attend college or university?

  • new experiences

  • career preparation

  • increased knowledge

Use specific details and examples in your answer.

Imagine you could improve the town where you live by changing one important thing about it. Which of the following would you choose to do?

  • Build additional parks

  • Construct more libraries

  • Improve public transportation

Use specific details and examples in your answer.

These days, people enjoy a lot of time away from their work and school obligations. Many people use this time to visit new places and learn about them. What do you think is the best way to learn about a place you are visiting for the first time?

  • Going to a museum

  • Joining a guided tour of popular attractions

  • Visiting a popular shopping area

  • Talking to a local resident

  • Watching a local television station

Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. Do not use memorized examples.

People in society work in many different settings, and for a variety of reasons. What do you think is the main reason why people have jobs?

  • to feel happier about their lives

  • to save money for the future

  • to develop new skills

Use specific examples and details to support your answer.

Everyone wants to be as healthy as possible. Fortunately, in modern society there are many things that people can do to improve their physical condition. What do you think is the best way to stay healthy?

  • Getting exercise on a regular basis

  • Eating healthy food every day

  • Visiting a doctor for regular examinations

Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

The people we work with have many different characteristics and all of them affect the quality of our time at work. Of the following, what do you think is the most important quality for a boss or supervisor to have?

  • a serious attitude about their work

  • a lot of related experience

  • a tendency to always tell the truth

You may choose more than one. Use specific details and examples in your answer.

All around the world, people are living longer than ever before. Which of the following do you think are the main causes of this phenomenon? You may choose more than one option.

  • The development of new technology

  • Changes to our eating habits

  • Improvements to our working conditions

Use specific reasons and details to develop your essay.

During our careers, we work with many different kinds of people. All of them have unique characteristics and personality traits. In your opinion, which of the following is the most important characteristic of a coworker?

  • a serious attitude regarding their work obligations

  • a willingness to learn new things

  • the ability to make other people laugh

You may choose more than one of these options. Use reasons and specific examples to explain your answer.

If parents want their children to succeed in the future, which of the following things should they teach them?

  • How to be honest

  • How to be helpful

  • How to be patient

Use reasons and specific examples to explain your answer.

When employees feel that the management of their company is doing something wrong, what do you think is the best way for them to respond?

  • Talking to the media

  • Speaking to the management directly

  • Discussing the problem with each other

Use reasons and specific examples to explain your answer.

What do you think is the best way for the government of your country to improve the environment?

  • Increase public transportation

  • Reduce the construction of new factories

  • Build more parks

Use reasons and specific examples to explain your answer.