Tips for the TOEFL Writing Section 1. Use present tense For facts and observations Cars are essential for life in the U.S. Most people can benefit from higher education. Opinions I think (that) . . . I believe (that) . . . In my opinion . . . 2. Use past tense To describe previous experiences When I was in high school, . . . My brother worked in a factory. 3. Use modals correctly Guns should be banned from campus. Cars can cause serious problems. 4. Check S - V relationship Most of the people who live in Utah need cars for their everyday lives. I lived on campus, and it was easy to get around without a car. 5. Check plurals and articles Cars are important to most Americans. The used car I bought was a bad investment. 6. Give details and examples to support your opinions When I moved off campus, I had to buy a car. Whenever I left my house to go shopping or run errands, I had to travel a great distance. My car was the only means of transportation because I lived too far from the bus stop.