# TOEFL Listen and Choose a Response: Tips 2026 | topin TOEFL guidesListen and Choose a Response Where Listening, in both modules Per module 12 in the first module; 3 in the harder second module or 7 in the easier one Audio One line of up to about 20 words, played once and not shown Answer Four written replies, one correct Tests Implied meaning, set phrases and intonation ## How it works You hear a single line, such as a question, a complaint or a suggestion, and read four possible replies. Only one would make sense as the next thing said in a real conversation. The line is not written on screen, so you have to catch it the first time. ## Worked example You hear (a woman): "Weren't you supposed to hand that essay in yesterday?" Choose the best response. 1. AYes, I handed it in to you yesterday. 2. BI got an extension, so it's due on Friday now. 3. CIt was supposed to be about five pages. 4. DNo, I'm meeting him tomorrow. Show the answer I got an extension, so it's due on Friday now. "Weren't you supposed to…" suggests surprise that something has not happened yet. The correct reply explains why the essay is not late. The first option contradicts the idea that it has not been handed in, the third answers a question about length, and the fourth has nothing to do with the essay. ## A method for Listen and Choose a Response 1. 1 ### Picture the situation Decide who is speaking and where: a classmate, a librarian, a flatmate. The right reply fits that relationship and setting. 2. 2 ### Name the function of the line Is it a request, an offer, a complaint, a suggestion or a real question? Replies to an offer accept or decline; replies to a complaint explain or apologise. 3. 3 ### Listen to the tone Rising or surprised intonation, and openers such as "Didn't you…" or "Don't tell me…", change the meaning. Tone often shows the speaker expects a different answer. 4. 4 ### Eliminate word echoes Cross out options that reuse words from the audio but do not respond to it. Wrong options are often built around a word you just heard. 5. 5 ### Reset before the next item These items come quickly one after another. Answer, then clear your mind so you catch the first words of the next line. ## Traps to avoid * Replies that repeat a word from the audio but answer a different question. * Replies to a yes/no question that start with yes or no but then contradict the speaker's point. * Taking an indirect request, such as "It's a bit cold in here", as a simple statement. * Replies with the wrong tense or time, such as talking about tomorrow when the speaker asked about yesterday. ## Listen and Choose a Response FAQs How many Choose a Response questions are on the TOEFL? In topin's mocks, which follow the 2026 blueprint, there are 12 in the first Listening module and 3 or 7 more in the second, depending on your path. Is the audio shown as text in Choose a Response? No. You only hear the line, once. The four replies are shown on screen. How can I practise Listen and Choose a Response? Listen to everyday dialogue in films, series and podcasts and pause after each line to predict the reply. Learn common spoken phrases for agreeing, refusing and complaining politely. Why is Choose a Response hard when the audio is so short? It tests implied meaning. The words are simple, but the right reply depends on tone and what the speaker is really asking for. ## Try Listen and Choose a Response under real timing Your first full-length TOEFL mock is free, with every section included. [Take the free mock ](/toefl/login)