CONTENTS 

Introduction  vi
  Guide to the TOEIC® Test vii
  About this Course viii

Listening Comprehension  2
  Part 1: Photographs  4
  Part 2: Question-Response  30
  Part 3: Short Conversations  57
  Part 4: Short Talks  101

Listening Comprehension Test  137

Reading  149
  Grammar  151
Vocabulary  167
  Part 5: Incomplete Sentences  182
  Part 6: Text Completion  195
  Part 7: Reading Comprehension  210

Reading Test  288

Appendices  316
  Answer Sheets and Score Conversion Chart 317
Essential Vocabulary 321
Understanding Different Accents 326
Tips on Taking the TOEIC Test 330

Practice Tests  333
  Practice Test 1  334
  Practice Test 2  374
 Scope and Sequence
Listening Comprehension 
Part 1 Photographs 

Try It Out 5


Improve Your Performance 9  ➠ Analyzing Distractors 10 
Similar-sounding Words 14  
Incorrect Key Words 16
Incorrect Interpretations 18
Steps to Success 20
Strategy Review and Tips 26 
Review  Test 27
Part 2 Question-Response 

Try It Out 31


Improve Your Performance 32  ➠ Wh- Questions 33    
Other Question Types 38  
Words with Multiple Meanings 46
Similar-sounding Words 47
Homophones 48
Steps to Success 49
Strategy Review and Tips 55 
Review  Test 56

Part 3 Short Conversations 
Try It Out 58


Improve Your Performance 63 ➠ Listening for Main Ideas 64 
Listening for Details 70 
Making Inferences 79 
Steps to Success 89 Conversations Including a Graphic 84
Strategy Review and Tips 95 
Review  Test 96
Part 4 Short Talks 
  Try It Out 102


Improve Your Performance 105 ➠ Listening for Main Ideas 106
Listening for Details 111 
Making Inferences 119 
Steps to Success 127 Short Talks Including a Graphic 122
Strategy Review and Tips 133 
Review  Test 134

Listening Comprehension Test 137

iv SCOPE AND SEQUENCE

Reading 
Grammar and Vocabulary Part 5 and Part 6

Grammar ➠ 151 Vocabulary

Word Choice 152 Word Forms 168
➠
167

Auxiliary Verbs 154 Words with Similar Meanings 170

Comparatives and Superlatives 156
Word Choice 172
Subject–Verb Agreement 158 Prepositions – Time and Place 174
Pronouns 160 Words that Look Alike 176
Verb Forms and Tenses 162 Conjunctions 178
Gerunds and Infinitives 164 Phrasal Verbs 180

Part 5 Incomplete Sentences

Try It Out 183

➠
Improve Your Performance Grammar and Vocabulary
Steps to Success 185
Strategy Review and Tips 191 
Review Test 192

Part 6 Text Completion

Try It Out 196

➠
Improve Your Performance Grammar and Vocabulary
Steps to Success 199
Strategy Review and Tips 205
Review Test 206

Part 7 Reading Comprehension 
Try It Out 211
➠
Improve Your Performance 224  Reading for Main Ideas
Reading for Details 231 
225 

Making  Inferences 237 

Steps to Success 260 Double Passages 244

Strategy Review and Tips 266 Triple Passages 252
Review Test 267

Reading Test 288

SCOPE AND SEQUENCE v

 About this Course
Pass the TOEIC Test, New Edition is fully revised and updated to reflect the latest changes to the
TOEIC test. The exercises provide authentic, up-to-date language practice and skills development for
each part of the test.

Overview of each part

Try It Out This opening section gives you a preview of what to expect in the
test.
Improve Your Performance Here you practice the language and skills you need to do well in
each part. This material forms the basis of your preparation. Work
through these exercises and you will improve your score. Identify
any weaknesses you may have and work hard to overcome them.
Steps to Success This section helps you develop your test-taking skills, giving you
detailed guidance on how to attempt each type of question.
Strategy Review and Tips This reviews the best strategies to use for each part of the test, and
gives you some advice other test-takers have found useful.
Review Test This final section is a complete test for each part. Your performance
on this test will help you assess your progress.

Assessing your progress

As well as the Try It Out preview test at the start of each part and the complete Review Test at the end,
Pass the TOEIC Test includes other tests to help boost your score.

Mini Tests Regular Mini Tests give you authentic test practice specific to each
language point or skill.
Listening Comprehension A complete Listening Comprehension Test assesses your ability on
Test the Listening section of the test.
Reading Test A complete Reading Test assesses your ability on the Reading
section of the test.
Practice Tests Two full-length Practice Tests at the back of the book evaluate
your performance across both the Listening and Reading sections
of the test. You can use the Score Conversion Chart to get an
approximate indication of your TOEIC score..

Additional features
Grammar and Vocabulary These handy sections focus on the grammar and vocabulary you
need to progress successfully through this level.
Essential Vocabulary This is a comprehensive list of words and phrases used in this
level.
Understanding Different This provides practice recognizing the various accents used in the
Accents test. Being familiar with these accents will help to improve your
listening comprehension.

viii INTRODUCTION
 part
1 Photographs

This part of the TOEIC® test consists of six black-and-white photographs. You will hear
four short statements describing each photograph. The photographs cover typical
situations. Most of the photographs are pictures of people. Some photographs are
pictures of a scene or an object.

You must choose the statement that best describes what you see in each photograph.
The statements are spoken only once, and are not written in your test book.

The statements are short and fairly simple. They are often in the present tense.

There is a short pause between each question, but there are no pauses between the
statements you hear that describe each photograph.

 Quick check

How many photographs are in this part of the TOEIC test?

How many statements are there for each photograph?
How many times do you hear each statement?
Are all the photographs of people?

4 LISTENING COMPREHENSION
Try It Out
1 Directions
For each question, you will hear four statements about a photograph. Listen and select the one
statement: (A), (B), (C), or (D), that best describes the picture. Then mark your answer.
You will hear the statements only once.

Look at the photograph and listen to the four statements.

EXAMPLE

[M-Am]
(A) He’s working on a computer.
(B) He’s drawing on the board.
(C) He’s walking into the room.
A  B C D
(D) He’s sitting near the desk.

The best description of the picture is statement (B), “He’s drawing on the board.” You should
mark answer choice (B).

Answer choice (A) incorrectly interprets the situation. The man is not working on a computer.
Answer choice (C) uses a word that sounds similar to something you can see in the photograph.
He is working in the room, not walking into the room. Answer choice (D) uses the wrong verb.
The man is standing, not sitting, near the desk.

 REMEMBER On the actual test, you will hear but NOT see the four answer choices.

PART 1 PHOTOGRAPHS 5
Improve Your Performance
In this section you will practice ways to improve your score on Part 1 of the TOEIC® test.

These are the exercises you will cover:

Analyzing Distractors

 understanding why some statements are correct
and others are incorrect

Similar-sounding Words

 listening carefully to words that sound alike in
order to tell them apart

Incorrect Key Words

 listening for key words to help identify correct
and incorrect statements

Incorrect Interpretations

 listening for false accounts; distinguishing
between facts and assumptions

As you work through Improve Your Performance, look back at your answers in the Try It Out section and
try to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Notice what problems you have, and focus on the areas
you need to improve.

PART 1 PHOTOGRAPHS 9
 Similar-sounding Words
Incorrect answer choices sometimes include words that sound similar to key words in the correct
answers. For example, a photograph shows a man standing in a hall, but the statement you hear says
“He’s standing against a wall.” The words hall and wall sound similar. You need to listen carefully to
distinguish these similar-sounding words.

Exercise A 2 Listen to the words. Check (✓) the words you hear in each pair below.

1. large ■
✓ charge ■ 6. plane ■ frame ■
2. fire ■ hire ■ 7. choose ■ lose ■
3. guest ■ rest ■ 8. close ■ nose ■
4. bag ■ rag ■ 9. sock ■ lock ■
5. wait ■ way ■ 10. waiter ■ water ■
Exercise B 3 Read these statements. Then listen and check (✓) the statements you hear.

1. The man is sitting alone. ■ 4. She’s setting the table. ■

The man is sitting at home. ■
✓ She’s sitting at the table. ■
2. He’s sailing a boat. ■ 5. There’s a bat on the chair. ■
He’s selling a boat. ■ There’s a hat on the chair. ■
3. They’re working together. ■ 6. The woman is waiting for a train. ■
They’re walking together. ■ The woman is waiting for a plane. ■

Exercise C 4 Look at this photograph. You will hear six statements. Listen carefully and check (✓)
Correct or Incorrect for each statement.

EXAMPLE
You hear: 1. The woman is holding a copy.
This is incorrect. The words copy and coffee
sound similar.

1. Correct ■ Incorrect ■
✓
2. Correct ■ Incorrect ■
3. Correct ■ Incorrect ■
4. Correct ■ Incorrect ■
5. Correct ■ Incorrect ■
6. Correct ■ Incorrect ■

14 LISTENING COMPREHENSION
PART 1 Steps to Success Practice 5

Look at the photograph. Answer the following questions.

STEP 1

Where is this? ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

What is happening? ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Who are these people? ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Find these items in the photograph.

STEP 2

mirror poster hair dryer towel apron brush

What other things can you see? .............................................................................................................................................................................................


STEP 3 16Listen to four statements about the photograph. As you listen, eliminate any statements
you are sure are incorrect.

(A) [ ] eliminate [ ] consider

(B) [ ] eliminate [ ] consider
(C) [ ] eliminate [ ] consider
(D) [ ] eliminate [ ] consider

Select the one statement that best describes what you see in the photograph.
STEP 4

Mark your answer. A  B C D

PART 1 PHOTOGRAPHS 25
 part
2 Question-Response

This part of the TOEIC® test consists of 25 items. For each item, you will hear a short
question or statement, followed by three responses. You must choose the most
appropriate response.

This part of the test is a “pure” listening challenge, because there are no photographs to
preview or answer choices to read. Everything is contained on the audio.

There is a short pause between each item. You will hear each item only once.

 Quick check

How many items are in this part of the TOEIC test?

Do all the items start with a question?
How many responses are there for each item?
How many times do you hear each item?

30 LISTENING COMPREHENSION
 Questions with What
Exercise A Match each question (1–6) with the correct response (a–f).
1. What time are you open? a. It’s very informative and easy to use.
2. What did Mrs. Smith ask you to do? b. How about Friday afternoon?
3. What is the best time to meet? c. From nine until five every day.
4. What will it cost to renew our insurance? d. I went to one on marketing.
5. What presentation did you go to? e. She wants me to write a report.
6. What do you think of our new website? f. About $300, I think.
c
1. ............ 2. ............ 3. ............ 4. ............ 5. ............ 6. ............

Exercise B Read the questions and choose the correct response: (A), (B), or (C).
1. What time does your flight leave?
(A) Yes, let’s leave. (B) Is that the time? (C) At five-fifteen.

2. What was the weather like on your vacation?

(A) I hope it’s not raining. (B) It was OK. (C) I didn’t like the hotel.

3. What do you do on Saturdays?

(A) I’m looking forward to it. (B) No, I don’t. (C) I usually see my friends.

4. What’s your plan for cutting costs this year?

(A) I haven’t decided yet. (B) It cost more than I expected. (C) I hear it’s expensive.

5. What’s your office like?

(A) I don’t like to work late. (B) That’s a good idea! (C) It’s pretty big.

6. What kind of business is Jason in?

(A) He’s an engineer. (B) Yes, business is good. (C) He’ll be back tomorrow.

Exercise C 19 Read the questions. Then listen and choose the correct response: (A), (B), or (C).
1. What was the company’s headquarters like? A  B C
2. What’s the matter with Sanjay? A  B C
3. What drink do you want? A  B C
4. What will you do with your old laptop? A  B C
5. What would you like to discuss? A  B C
6. What did you put in that desk? A  B C

MINI TEST Questions with What

20You will hear eight questions that begin with What. Each question is followed by three
responses. Listen and choose the correct response: (A), (B), or (C).
1. A  B C 3. A  B C 5. A  B C 7. A  B C
Score
2. A  B C 4. A  B C 6. A  B C 8. A  B C ............/8

34 LISTENING COMPREHENSION
 Words with Multiple Meanings
In English, the same word can sometimes have more than one meaning. For example, you hear the
question “Do you have the right time?” followed by the response “Yes, it’s on the right.” The word right
is used for two different meanings: right (correct) and right (opposite of left). The TOEIC test sometimes
uses words that have multiple meanings in order to mislead you. This is especially common in Part 2.

Exercise A Read these questions and statements. Choose the correct meaning of the underlined word.
1. You have to come and see us more often. 5. Let’s fix a date for the meeting.
a. visit b. look at a. arrange b. repair
2. We’re looking for two cheap metal filing cabinets. 6. We need to make some hard decisions.
a. poor quality b. inexpensive a. difficult b. solid
3. That hotel is very good. 7. This keyboard doesn’t appear to work.
a. kind b. high-quality a. seem b. become visible
4. We need to study the report carefully. 8. Sorry, I think you have the wrong number.
a. learn b. examine a. incorrect b. unsuitable

Exercise B Complete each pair of sentences with the same word.

break
1. Do you want to stop work and take a ............................................. ?
break
The machine is expensive so please don't ............................................. it.
2. I’d like to ............................................. a room for tonight.
I’m reading a ............................................. on time management.
3. Hugo is taking a ............................................. in business studies at college.
I never fly business ............................................. as it’s too expensive.
4. I would like a ............................................. refund, please.
After the big meal everyone was ............................................. .
5. What ............................................. of work do you do?
It was very ............................................. of you to meet me.
6. I often ............................................. tennis on the weekend.
What did you think of the ............................................. last night?
7. Please tell me your name and ............................................. .
The president gave a wonderful ............................................. at the start of the conference.
8. I don’t like food that’s too spicy or ............................................. .
It’s going to be ............................................. and sunny all weekend.

MINI TEST Words with Multiple Meanings

39 You will hear eight questions or statements, each followed by three responses. Listen carefully
for words with multiple meanings, and choose the correct response: (A), (B), or (C).
1. A  B C 3. A  B C 5. A  B C 7. A  B C

2. A  B C 4. A  B C 6. A  B C 8. A  B C Score

............/8

46 LISTENING COMPREHENSION
part
3 Short Conversations
This part of the TOEIC® test consists of thirteen short conversations. There are three
questions for each conversation. Each question has four answer choices. You must
choose the correct answer from the four choices.

You can read the questions and the answer choices, but not the conversations. You will
hear each conversation only once.

NOTE
• Most conversations are between two people. Often each person speaks twice, but
sometimes they may speak three or more times each.
• Conversations are designed to be natural, so they include contractions (I’ll rather than
I will), fillers (Oh, Uh, Hmm, etc.) and a range of formal and informal language.
• One conversation has three people.
• There are a few questions that require you to make inferences based on what you
hear. These questions test your knowledge of context, and vocabulary function.
For example, What does the man mean when he says, “It’s up to you”?
• For three conversations you will also see a small graphic (e.g., a form, list, or label)
together with the questions. One question will require you to relate the information in
the graphic to what you hear in the conversation.
For example, the graphic may be a list of office departments. One question may be:
Look at the graphic. Which department does the man need to contact? You will not
hear the name of the department, but the man may be calling with an invoice query,
and one of the departments is Finance.
• After each conversation, you will hear the three questions. There is a pause of eight
seconds between each question.

 Quick check

How many conversations are there in this part of the TOEIC test?
How many conversations have three speakers?
What kinds of graphics are sometimes used?
Do all the conversations include a graphic?
Are the conversations repeated?

PART 3 SHORT CONVERSATIONS 57


56 EXAMPLE 4 – a conversation including a graphic
This example shows a conversation including a graphic. Notice Question 3, which requires you to
relate the information you see in the graphic to what you hear in the conversation.
[M-Br] Sorry, Katy. Can you tell me when I’m seeing Dr. Nickels? Weather chart
I can’t remember. Monday 9°C
[F-Cn] No problem. Let me just check in the diary… Uh, that’s at 3 p.m. Tuesday 8°C
on Friday. Wednesday 7°C
[M-Br] OK, thanks. It’s a long drive and I’m not looking forward to it, Thursday 10°C
to be honest. I hope the weather improves. Friday 10°C
[F-Cn] I checked and they say it is going to be warmer from tomorrow.
[M-Br] Well, that’s a relief. And I suppose he is the senior engineer on this
project, so I can’t avoid going.

1. What is the conversation mainly about?

(A) The changing weather
(B) Plans for a vacation
(C) An upcoming meeting
(D) A medical appointment

The speakers are discussing the man’s meeting with Dr. Nickel’s, which is scheduled for
3 p.m. on Friday.

2. What does the man imply about Dr. Nickels?

(A) He has been unwell.
(B) He might soon retire.
(C) He will be relieved.
(D) He is a key associate.

The man says Dr. Nickel’s is the senior engineer on this project and therefore he can’t avoid
going. We can infer Dr. Nickels is an important contact.

3. Look at the graphic. On what day does this conversation take place?
(A) Tuesday
(B) Wednesday
(C) Thursday
(D) Friday

The woman mentions the weather is going to be warmer from tomorrow. We can see from the
chart that the weather will improve from Thursday, meaning the day the conversation takes
place is Wednesday.

 REMEMBER On the actual test, you will hear but NOT see each conversation.

PART 3 SHORT CONVERSATIONS 61

 Listening for Details
In Part 3, you need to show that you can identify and understand important points in the conversations
you listen to. Questions that test your ability to understand details in a conversation may ask about time,
reasons, plans, offers/requests, suggestions/advice, and opinions. For some questions, you will also need
to refer to a graphic (e.g., a list, form, schedule, table, etc.) to find the information you need.

TIPS Listening for Details – Part 3 Short Conversations

• Look for questions beginning with What, When, Why, and How.
• Before you listen, make sure you know what information you need to listen for.
• As you listen, identify any key words or phrases related to the information you need.
• Focus on the information you need to answer each question.
• Check key details in any graphics.

64 EXAMPLE 1 – a typical conversation

[F-Am] Good morning, this is Helen from Boston Office Supplies.

[M-Am] Oh, yes. Hello.
time [F-Am] We have a promotion this month. We have solid oak desks
for just $199, and our Ambassador office chairs are half-price.
opinion [M-Am] That sounds good. Umm… well, some of the chairs here reason
are pretty old. How much are the ones you mentioned?
[F-Am] The Ambassador chairs are just $80 right now.
[M-Am] Really?
[F-Am] They’re leather, and come with a five-year warranty.
Why don’t you order now, while the shipping is free? suggestion

1. How long does the promotion last? The woman says the promotion is for this
(A) All morning month. (A) refers to when the conversation
(B) One month takes place. The warranty is for five years (C).
(C) Five years (D) is not indicated.
(D) One week

2. What does the woman suggest the man do? The woman says Why don’t you order now…
She is referring to the Ambassador chairs,
(A) Buy an oak desk
not a desk (A). She refers to a warranty, but
(B) Extend the warranty
not that the man should extend it (B). She
(C) Place an order immediately
says shipping is free, but special delivery (D)
(D) Choose special delivery
is not mentioned.

3. What does the man think of the promotion?

The man says That sounds good. (B) and (D)
(A) It is a good opportunity. are incorrect, as the man is interested in the
(B) It is expensive. low price. (C) confuses the age of the chairs
(C) It is an old offer. in the man’s office with the offer.
(D) It is not very interesting.

70 LISTENING COMPREHENSION
 DEPARTURE
65 EXAMPLE 2 – a conversation with a graphic BUS
TIME
X5 12:00 p.m.
[F-Br] I’ve almost finished these designs for Bradshaw’s. Skyliner 12:15 p.m.
They want all their original samples back, too, so do Central 12:30 p.m.
you think you could take everything over there later? City Express 1:15 p.m.
[M-Au] Sure. No problem.
[F-Br] Thanks a lot. I promised Geoff Clarkson he would have them today.
[M-Au] Oh, my car’s being serviced, so I’ll have to take the bus. Is that OK?
[F-Br] Yes. If you’re all right with that. Don’t you want to take a taxi?
[M-Au] No need. The stop’s right outside their place. I have a quick meeting with
Steve from Accounts at half past twelve. I’ll head straight over after that.

1. What does the woman ask the man to do?

(A) Finish her work
(B) Copy some documents
(C) Deliver a package
(D) Order some samples

The woman mentions she has some designs and samples for a client, and asks the man to
take everything over there. (A) and (D) are incorrect. (B) is not indicated.

2. What will the man do later?

(A) Visit a client
(B) Go to the bank
(C) Call customer service
(D) Repair his car

We can deduce that Bradshaw’s is a client, and that is where the man agrees to go later. He mentions
a meeting with Steve from Accounts, not that he will visit a bank (B). He says he is having his car
serviced, not that he will call customer service (C) or repair the car himself (D).

3. Look at the graphic. Which bus will the man most likely take?
(A) X5
(B) Skyliner
(C) Central
(D) City Express

The man says he has a meeting at half past twelve, and adds he will head straight over after that. The
only bus leaving later than 12:30 p.m. is the City Express.

PART 3 SHORT CONVERSATIONS 71

 Conversations Including a Graphic
Some conversations have a graphic (e.g., a list, or chart). One question will test your ability to relate what
you hear with information you see in the graphic. You need to study the information in the graphic while
you listen.

Types of graphic
Here are some types of graphics you will see:

1 a directory, showing companies, staff, phone 4 a simple map, showing places and their
numbers, floors, departments, etc. locations.

CITY BUSINESS OFFICES

Ground Floor ALT Tech Inc. Display area 1 ESCALATOR Display area 2

WINDOW
First Floor Lifestyle Insurance
Second Floor Hilton & Sons
Third Floor Baxter Legal Services
REGISTER

2 a transportation timetable, showing flight

numbers and destinations, train times and MAIN ENTRANCE
Display area 3
platforms, bus numbers and routes, etc.
Display area 4

Flight Destination WINDOW

AF65 Paris
BA501 Manchester
JAL34 Tokyo 5 a schedule or agenda (e.g., for a meeting
SU234 Moscow or conference) showing presentations and
speakers, or activities and times, etc.
3 an advertisement, coupon, menu, price list or
other type of promotional material. Event Location
Employee disputes Seminar Room 1
MANOLA B470 Work/Life balance Seminar Room 2
Computer security I.T. Room
Time management Lecture Hall

Tips
£79.99 • These questions always begin Look at the
12-month guarantee graphic.
Delivery within 3-5 working days • Notice the type of graphic (a map, list, etc.)
Flexible credit terms available • Study the information quickly. Look for dates,
names, prices, etc.

Warning!
The information you hear may sometimes be different from the information you see in the graphic. For
example, you see an office directory with a list of names and phone numbers, but in the conversation the
speakers say the phone numbers have changed.

84 LISTENING COMPREHENSION
MINI TEST Conversations Including a Graphic
78 Practice listening for conversations that include a graphic. Listen to these conversations and
choose the most appropriate answer: (A), (B), (C), or (D), for each question.

1. Why does the woman say, “It’s incredible”? CITY MUSEUM

(A) She doesn’t believe the man. Chinese Ceramics Level G
(B) She strongly disagrees. Ancient Egypt Level 1
(C) She is very impressed. European Art Level 2
Greek Sculpture Level 3
(D) She feels disappointed.
2. What does the man suggest they do?
(A) Check the signs
(B) Take a short break
(C) Wait until later
(D) Leave the cafeteria
3. Look at the graphic. Which level will the
speakers go to?
(A) Level G
(B) Level 1
(C) Level 2
(D) Level 3

4. Look at the graphic. What is the final

Bus Destination
destination of the man’s bus?
7 BVS Business School
(A) BVS Business School
8 Basildon Park
(B) Basildon Park
(C) Eastern University 9 Eastern University

(D) Casement Bridge 12 Casement Bridge

5. How often does the man’s bus run?

(A) Every ten minutes
(B) Every fifteen minutes
(C) Every half hour
(D) Every hour
6. What can be inferred from the conversation?
(A) The man has a long wait.
(B) The weather is warm.
(C) The conversation takes place in the evening.
(D) The speakers are outside.

1. A  B C D 3. A  B C D 5. A  B C D

2. A  B C D 4. A  B C D 6. A  B C D

PART 3 SHORT CONVERSATIONS 87

PART 3 Steps to Success Practice 4

STEP 1 Quickly read the questions and answer choices for this conversation. Identify the key words,
and study the graphic. What do they tell you about the context?
1. Why does the man feel anxious? Departures
(A) He cannot find his bag. Flight Gate Destination
(B) He has lost his watch. AE53 44 Boston
(C) His ticket is missing. YH8 17 Washington
(D) His coworker is late. BA901 23 Seattle
CN377 15 Miami
2. What will the woman do next?
(A) Cancel the trip
(B) Make a call
(C) Collect the tickets
(D) Check the time

3. Look at the graphic. Which city are the speakers traveling to?
(A) Boston
(B) Washington
(C) Seattle
(D) Miami

STEP 2 For each question, identify the information you need to listen for. Note the key words.
Question 1: .........................................................................................
Question 2: .........................................................................................
Question 3: .........................................................................................


REMEMBER

On the actual test, you cannot mark the test paper, or make notes. You
should quickly preview the questions and identify the key words silently
to yourself.

STEP 3  Listen to the conversation. As you listen, study the questions and answer choices
82

above. For Question 3, you also need to refer to the graphic. For each question, try to
identify the correct answer. Eliminate any answer choices you are sure are incorrect.

STEP 4 Mark your answers.

1. A  B C D

2. A  B C D

3. A  B C D

PART 3 SHORT CONVERSATIONS 93

 Review Test
Directions: You will hear thirteen conversations. For each conversation, read the three questions
84

and the four answer choices that follow each question. Select the most appropriate
answer: (A), (B), (C), or (D). Then mark your answer. You will hear each conversation only once.

1. What is the woman’s occupation? 7. Who most likely are the speakers?
(A) Teacher (A) Web site developers
(B) Firefighter (B) Office workers
(C) Cook (C) Photographers
(D) Sales manager (D) Job applicants

2. What does Julia say about her new job? 8. What does the man say about the new Web
(A) The hours are too long. site?
(B) She needs more training. (A) It is very informative.
(C) It is very exciting. (B) It cost a lot of money.
(D) It is not what she expected. (C) It will be finished soon.
(D) It is not very easy to use.
3. What happened last week?
(A) Someone was injured. 9. Why is the woman surprised?
(B) There was a traffic accident. (A) There is a photo of her on the Web site.
(C) The woman went to a hospital. (B) Her job is advertised on the Web site.
(D) A building burned down. (C) She won a customer service award.
(D) She is no longer on the team.
4. Who is the woman talking to?
(A) A pilot 10. Who is the man talking to?
(B) A flight attendant (A) A coworker
(C) A travel agent (B) His boss
(D) A hotel manager (C) An employee
(D) His wife
5. What time will the woman arrive in London?
(A) 3:00 a.m. 11. What does the woman suggest the man do?
(B) 5:30 a.m. (A) Quit his job
(C) 6:15 p.m. (B) Build a swimming pool
(D) 9:30 p.m. (C) Move to a better neighborhood
(D) Request a higher salary
6. Why does the man advise the woman to stay at
the Piccadilly Grand Hotel? 12. How do the speakers probably feel?
(A) It is a bargain. (A) Unhappy
(B) It is in the city center. (B) Confused
(C) It is a high-quality hotel. (C) Jealous
(D) It is available for three nights. (D) Nervous

1. A  B C D 4. A  B C D 7. A  B C D 10. A  B C D

2. A  B C D 5. A  B C D 8. A  B C D 11. A  B C D

3. A  B C D 6. A  B C D 9. A  B C D 12. A  B C D

96 LISTENING COMPREHENSION
part
4 Short Talks
This part of the TOEIC® test consists of ten short talks. There are three questions for each
short talk. Each question has four answer choices. You must choose the correct answer
from the four choices.

The short talks are all given by one speaker. You can read the questions and the answer
choices, but not the short talks. You will hear each short talk only once.

There are many different types of short talk. You may hear an advertisement, news
bulletin, recorded announcement or traffic report. Some talks may be someone leaving
an answerphone message, giving a business talk, or making a public announcement.
Before each short talk begins, there is an introductory statement that states the kind of
talk you will hear.

NOTE
• Similar to Part 3, for some questions you need to make inferences based on what
you hear. These questions often test your knowledge of idiomatic phrases, and
expressions in context. For example, What does the woman imply when she says,
“I couldn’t have done it without you”?

• For two short talks you will also see a small graphic (e.g., a sign, graph, notice, or list)
together with the questions. One question will require you to relate the information
in the graphic to what you hear in the short talk. For example, the graphic may be a
map. One question may be: Look at the graphic. Where do listeners need to go? The
speaker explains to listeners their coach will leave from the stop on Pine Avenue, and
the map shows a Visitor Center at that location.

• Some talks are more formal than others. Therefore, some speakers use more relaxed,
natural language while others will have a more official tone.

• After each short talk, you will hear the three questions. There is a pause of eight
seconds between each question.

 Quick check

How many short talks are there in this part of the TOEIC test?
How many questions are there for each short talk?
How many times do you hear each short talk?
How many talks include a graphic?
What kinds of graphics are used?

PART 4 SHORT TALKS 101


86 EXAMPLE 2 – a short talk including a graphic

This example shows a short talk including a graphic.

[M-Br] Good morning everyone. I need to tell you about a change to our program today.
Dr. Carlton is running late. Apparently, there are roadworks on the A14 again and traffic is a
nightmare, so no surprises there! He expects to be here in an hour or so, but can’t confirm
exactly when. We wish him well. Luckily, Professor Samuels has agreed to swap places with
him, so she’ll now be our first speaker this morning. Oh, and one more thing, can I ask you
to put your tea and coffee cups back on the drinks station after each break? It will help our
kitchen staff enormously.
Time Lecturer Session
10:00 – 11:30 Dr. Carlton Affordable Housing
Break
11:45 – 1:15 Ms. Martin Creating Sustainable Communities
Lunch
2:00 – 3:30 Professor Garcia The Building Challenge
Break
3:45 – 5:15 Professor Samuels Urban Partnerships

1. Why is Dr. Carlton unable to give his

The speaker says that Dr. Carlton is running
lecture this morning?
late (meaning delayed) due to roadworks on
(A) He slept badly the previous night. the A14. (A) is incorrect, nightmare is used as
(B) He has a fever and is feeling unwell. very bad (to describe the traffic), not as a bad
(C) His journey has been disrupted. dream. The speaker says We wish him well,
(D) He has had a traffic accident. but this does not mean Dr. Carlton is unwell
(B). No accident is mentioned (D).

2. Look at the graphic. At what time will the We can see from the graphic that the Urban
Urban Partnerships session begin? Partnership session is given by Professor
(A) 10:00 a.m. Samuels. The speaker says Professor Samuels
(B) 11:45 a.m. has agreed to swap places with Dr. Carlton.
(C) 2:00 p.m.
(D) 3:45 p.m.

3. What does the speaker ask listeners to do?

The speaker asks listeners to put your tea and
(A) Help in the kitchen coffee cups back on the drinks station.
(B) Take a break
(C) Finish their drinks
(D) Return their used cups

 REMEMBER On the actual test, you will hear but NOT see each conversation.

PART 4 SHORT TALKS 103

 MINI TEST Listening for Main Ideas
94 Practice listening for all the main idea elements: the speaker, topic, audience, location, and
purpose. Listen to these short talks and choose the most appropriate answer: (A), (B), (C),
or (D), for each question.
1. What is the purpose of this advertisement? 7. What is the main purpose of this talk?
(A) To announce a store opening (A) To introduce a speaker
(B) To attract more customers (B) To thank the audience
(C) To advertise for new staff (C) To promote a book
(D) To promote car safety (D) To present an award

2. What is being announced? 8. What is the woman mostly talking about?

(A) Reduced prices on products (A) The importance of local history
(B) Cheap vehicle insurance (B) A prominent local historian
(C) Extra discounts on cars (C) A famous person from the past
(D) Vehicle tests at no cost (D) The voyage of The Mayflower

3. Who is this advertisement directed towards? 9. Who is the audience for this talk?
(A) Existing customers only (A) University students studying history
(B) New customers only (B) Local people interested in history
(C) Listeners to a radio station (C) Members of the Historical Society
(D) Car owners with full insurance (D) Authors of books on history

4. What is this report mainly about?

10. What is the main purpose of this speech?
(A) A transportation trade show
(A) To share experience and knowledge
(B) An industrial dispute
(B) To ask for help in the Sales Department
(C) A union leader’s resignation
(C) To announce a merger
(D) An auto manufacturer
(D) To introduce a new staff member
5. Who is the speaker?
11. Who is the speaker talking to?
(A) A factory worker
(A) Lecturers in business
(B) A local reporter
(B) New company trainees
(C) A news presenter
(C) People at a sales conference
(D) A company president
(D) Sales and marketing personnel
6. Where is this report being made?
12. Where is the speech taking place?
(A) In a radio studio
(A) In a factory
(B) Outside a union headquarters
(B) In a restaurant
(C) At a press conference
(C) In an office building
(D) From Derek Brown’s home
(D) In a parking lot

1. A  B C D 4. A  B C D 7. A  B C D 10. A  B C D

2. A  B C D 5. A  B C D 8. A  B C D 11. A  B C D

3. A  B C D 6. A  B C D 9. A  B C D 12. A  B C D

Score ................./12

110 LISTENING COMPREHENSION

 Short Talks Including a Graphic
Similar to Part 3, some short talks have a graphic (e.g., a map, or label). One question will test
your ability to relate what you hear with information you see in the graphic. You need to study the
information in the graphic while you listen.

Types of graphic
The types of graphics you will see in Part 4 are similar to those in Part 3: a building directory, floor
plan, schedule, price list, order form, map, meeting agenda, advertisement, timetable, etc.

Flight Destination
3rd quarter, July–September
AF65 Paris
Number sold ‘000s

2
BA501 Manchester
1.5
JAL34 Tokyo
1
SU234 Moscow
0.5

0
Knitwear Swimwear Rain jackets Outer coats

Department GATE 21
A

Meeting room Capacity

Ballroom up to 250 people B
Oakwood Room 30-40 people
Phoenix Lounge 20-30 people
Boardroom up to 12 people C

Tips
• These questions always begin Look at the graphic.
• Notice the type of graphic (a program, timetable, etc.)
• Study the information quickly. Look for numbers, names, places, etc. Listen for this information in
the talk.

Warning!
Remember, the speaker may change information that you see in the graphic. For example, you see a
notice showing bus numbers and bays, but you hear an announcement saying that one bus will now
depart from a different bay.

122 LISTENING COMPREHENSION

 PART 4 Steps to Success Practice 5

Quickly
STEP 1

read the questions and answer choices for
Argo 250
this speech. Identify the key words, and study the
graphic. What do they tell you about the context?
Simply the best!
Use anywhere!
1. How does the Argo 250 compare to its rivals?
Do anything!
(A) It is more economical to use.
 super strong
(B) It is easier to use.
 cordless
(C) It is less expensive to buy.
(D) It is a lot more powerful.  quiet

Only
2. How long does the company guarantee the Argo 250?
(A) For one month only $220!
(B) For six months
(C) For one year Accessory pack: $49.99
(D) For the life of the product Shipping $19.99

3. Look at the graphic. How much can listeners save if they buy the product today?
(A) $19.99
(B) $40.00
(C) $49.99
(D) $110

For each question, identify the information you need to listen for. Note the key words.
STEP 2

Question 1: .........................................................................................
Question 2: .........................................................................................
Question 3: .........................................................................................

 REMEMBER

On the actual test, you cannot mark the test paper, or make notes. You
should quickly preview the questions and identify the key words silently
to yourself.


STEP 3 112 Listen to the speech. As you listen, study the questions and answer choices above.
For Question 3, you also need to refer to the graphic. For each question, try to identify the
correct answer. Eliminate any answer choices you are sure are incorrect.

Mark your answers.

STEP 4

1. A  B C D

2. A  B C D

3. A  B C D

132 LISTENING COMPREHENSION

 Review Test
113 Directions: You will hear ten short talks given by a single speaker. For each short talk, read the three
questions and the four answer choices that follow each question. Select the most appropriate answer:
(A), (B), (C), or (D). Then mark your answer. You will hear each short talk only once.

1. Where can this announcement be heard? 7. Who is the speaker talking to?
(A) At a hotel (A) A new employee
(B) At a sports center (B) An important client
(C) At a supermarket (C) A news reporter
(D) At a flower store (D) A maintenance worker

2. What is the purpose of this announcement? 8. Where is the restroom?

(A) To promote a special offer (A) On the third floor
(B) To ask people to leave (B) Along the hallway
(C) To announce the time (C) In the corner
(D) To invite people to return (D) Across from the elevator

3. When is this announcement taking place? 9. What is the speaker going to do next?
(A) On Sunday morning (A) Make coffee
(B) On Monday evening (B) Give a presentation
(C) On Tuesday morning (C) See a customer
(D) On the weekend (D) Go to lunch

4. Where is the speaker? 10. What will the weather be like in Ontario?
(A) On a soccer field (A) Warm and sunny everywhere
(B) In a school (B) Mostly warm but cloudy
(C) In a sports stadium (C) Cold and rainy in the afternoon
(D) In a television studio (D) Rainy later for some areas

5. Who is the speaker talking to? 11. What does the speaker suggest people do?
(A) The spectators (A) Get some exercise outdoors
(B) The event organizers (B) Avoid travel until midweek
(C) A group of fans (C) Stay away from big cities
(D) A couple of players (D) Enjoy a trip to the coast

6. What is stated in the talk? 12. What will happen later in the week?
(A) The match lasted a long time. (A) Some areas will have snow.
(B) The result was surprising. (B) Temperatures will rise.
(C) The weather was fantastic. (C) More rain will fall.
(D) The competition is almost over. (D) The pressure will drop.

1. A  B C D 4. A  B C D 7. A  B C D 10. A  B C D

2. A  B C D 5. A  B C D 8. A  B C D 11. A  B C D

3. A  B C D 6. A  B C D 9. A  B C D 12. A  B C D

134 LISTENING COMPREHENSION

Grammar
In this section you will practice the grammar you need to improve your score on Part 5 and Part 6 of the
TOEIC® test.

These are the exercises you will cover:

Word Choice

checking your knowledge of words that are
often confused (some/any, etc.)

Auxiliary Verbs
may, etc.)

choosing the correct auxiliary verb (will/have/

Comparatives and
Superlatives
using the comparative (quicker, more
convenient, etc.) and superlative (the cheapest,
the most interesting, etc.)

Subject–Verb Agreement

making sure the subject and the verb of a
sentence match (A team of experts is working on
the problem.)

Pronouns

practicing the use of different pronouns
(She asked me to work overtime on my own.)

Verb Forms and Tenses

using the correct form of the verb and the
correct tense (We are having a meeting at 4:00 p.m.)

Gerunds and Infinitives

using the gerund (-ing form) and the infinitive
(with and without to)

As you work through this Grammar section, try to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Notice what
problems you have, and focus on the areas you need to improve.

GRAMMAR 151
MINI TEST Subject-Verb Agreement
Choose the most appropriate answer: (A), (B), (C), or (D), to complete each sentence.
1. Bates Bicycles ....................... been here for over 6. A number of engineers ....................... trying to fix
thirty years. the problem.
(A) has (A) am
(B) have (B) be
(C) are (C) is
(D) was (D) are
2. The team of scientists from Geneva ....................... 7. The best place to go for a short vacation
arriving tonight. ....................... Singapore.
(A) are (A) be
(B) is (B) has
(C) will (C) is
(D) be (D) are
3. One of the senior managers ....................... 8. Do you think that two hours .......................
dismissed for misconduct last week. enough to complete all this work?
(A) were (A) are
(B) has (B) is
(C) is (C) have
(D) was (D) be
4. My favorite kind of program to watch on 9. Nobody ....................... expecting the sales figures
television ....................... sports. to be so high.
(A) are (A) were
(B) be (B) was
(C) is (C) had
(D) has (D) could
5. Over $30,000 ....................... taken during the 10. We are pleased to announce that our latest
robbery. restaurant, The Three Chefs, ....................... to
(A) has open next month.
(B) had (A) is
(C) was (B) are
(D) were (C) will
(D) have

1. A  B C D 4. A  B C D 7. A  B C D 10. A  B C D

2. A  B C D 5. A  B C D 8. A  B C D

3. A  B C D 6. A  B C D 9. A  B C D Score ................./10

GRAMMAR 159
MINI TEST Words that Look Alike
Choose the most appropriate answer: (A), (B), (C), or (D), to complete each sentence.
1. A government source said high ....................... 6. Everyone seemed happy with the new
was the cause of the current economic kitchen ....................... Martine, who complained
difficulties. there was not enough light.
(A) infection (A) expect
(B) intervention (B) extent
(C) inflation (C) excess
(D) indication (D) except
2. The company stock price is ....................... , 7. Low ....................... among the workforce is partly
according to experts. responsible for the drop in productivity.
(A) overrated (A) moral
(B) overcome (B) mortgage
(C) overcharged (C) mortal
(D) overdeveloped (D) morale
3. Mr. Kim was disappointed with the builder’s 8. Your employer should ....................... full details of
....................... to continue working over the any pension plan you are entitled to take
weekend. part in.
(A) renovation (A) protect
(B) refusal (B) protest
(C) removal (C) provide
(D) renewal (D) propose
4. Would you like to ....................... towards Gina’s 9. We have to ....................... permission from the
anniversary gift? landlord before we redecorate the building.
(A) contribute (A) retain
(B) contaminate (B) obtain
(C) convince (C) maintain
(D) converse (D) attain
5. Unfortunately, it is ....................... impossible to 10. Any complaints will be ....................... at next
repair your computer without losing some week’s production meeting.
data. (A) misused
(A) commonly (B) improved
(B) practically (C) discussed
(C) recently (D) persuaded
(D) evenly

1. A  B C D 4. A  B C D 7. A  B C D 10. A  B C D

2. A  B C D 5. A  B C D 8. A  B C D

3. A  B C D 6. A  B C D 9. A  B C D Score ................./10

VOCABULARY 177
 part
5 Incomplete Sentences

This part of the TOEIC® test consists of 30 sentences. Each sentence contains a missing
word or phrase. Below each sentence are four answer choices. You must choose the
answer that best completes the sentence. The focus is on grammar and vocabulary.

 Quick check

How many questions are in this part of the TOEIC test?

How many answer choices are there for each question?
What is the language focus?

You may find it useful to review the Grammar and Vocabulary sections before you start.

182 READING
Try It Out

Directions
Read each sentence. You will notice that there is a word or phrase missing. Study the four answer
choices and select the one answer: (A), (B), (C), or (D), that best completes the sentence. Then mark
your answer.

EXAMPLE
Can you please send a more detailed .............................. of how to install this software?
(A) argument
(B) explanation
(C) justification
(D) reason A  B C D

The correct answer is answer choice (B), “explanation.” An explanation is a statement that makes
something clearer to understand. This is therefore the only answer with an appropriate meaning
for the sentence. You should mark answer choice (B).

1. We prefer to be very .............................. here, so you 4. As Carlo’s cough became worse, the nurse
do not need to wear a suit in the office. became .............................. worried about his health.
(A) informal (A) increase
(B) independent (B) increased
(C) indecisive (C) increasingly
(D) insensitive (D) increasing
2. In your opinion, which of these alternatives is 5. If the traffic is not too bad, I should be there
.............................. option? .............................. an hour.
(A) more cheap (A) until
(B) cheaper than (B) during
(C) as cheap (C) before
(D) the cheapest (D) in
3. Ten hours in an airplane .............................. a very 6. When is the annual salary review ..............................
long time when you are sitting next to a small take place?
child. (A) will
(A) are (B) is
(B) is (C) going to
(C) has (D) shall
(D) be

1. A  B C D 3. A  B C D 5. A  B C D

2. A  B C D 4. A  B C D 6. A  B C D

PART 5 INCOMPLETE SENTENCES 183

part
6 Text Completion

This part of the TOEIC® test consists of four short texts. Each text has four blanks —
these are spaces where a word, phrase, or sentence is missing. Below each blank are
four answer choices. You must choose the answer that best completes the sentence.

Part 6 of the TOEIC test is very similar to Part 5. The main focus is on grammar and
vocabulary. However, Part 5 consists of single sentences whereas in Part 6 the sentences
are part of a text (an e-mail, article, letter, notice, etc.). Therefore, you sometimes need to
read more than one sentence in order to choose the correct answer.

In addition, one question for each text asks you to identify a missing sentence. This
question tests your understanding of context. You may need to read the paragraph, or
even the whole text, again to get a general idea of the purpose.

 Quick check

How many questions are in this part of the TOEIC test?

How many answer choices are there for each question?
What is the main language focus?
How is Part 6 different from Part 5?
What does the "missing sentence" question test?

You may find it useful to review the Grammar and Vocabulary sections before you start.

PART 6 TEXT COMPLETION 195

Try It Out

EXAMPLE

SENTINEL SYSTEMS
The safety of our employees is a top priority at Sentinel Systems. Every member of the
1
production staff is therefore required .......................................... the “Safety in the Workplace” training
seminar once every year. This is a mandatory requirement to make sure all employees work
2
in a safe environment. Anyone who ......................................... to attend the seminar risks endangering
themselves and their coworkers.

The seminars take place on the last Friday of every month, at 2:00 p.m. in Training Room B.
3
A maximum of twenty people can attend each session. Please note that we .........................................
have four spaces left for this month’s seminar on Friday the 27th. Call Amanda at Ext. 233
to reserve your spot.

4
......................................... . If you have any questions, contact me by e-mail.
Geoff Kleber
Human Resources

1. (A) attendance
1. After the passive infinitive to be required, we
(B) attending
need to use the infinitive with to.
(C) to attend
(D) attend
2. All options are grammatically possible,
2. (A) wishes so to answer this item correctly you need
(B) registers to understand the context. The rest of the
(C) applies sentence warns of the consequences of
(D) fails not attending the seminar.

3. (A) currently
(B) openly 3. Only this adverb (meaning at this time)
(C) absolutely correctly completes the sentence.
(D) hardly

4. The purpose of the notice is to encourage

4 (A) I look forward to seeing you there.
employees to attend the safety seminar.
(B) Thank you for your co-operation. This sentence reflects that purpose.
(C) No further action is necessary.
(D) Your concern is most appreciated.

196 READING
 PART 6 Steps to Success Practice 1
STEP 1Quickly preview this advertisement.
Fantastic Summer Sale!
1
The HomeTronics summer sale starts Monday. Don’t miss the fantastic summer ......................................
on a huge range of electrical products. Take 50% off all flat screen televisions, MP3 players,
and satellite receivers. Plus, for the next two weeks, we are offering shoppers the chance to
2
enter our free prize drawing. For every purchase you .......................................... , we will give you a ticket
3
to win a two-week dream vacation .......................................... Europe plus $1,000 in spending money.
4
.......................................... Hurry in now to the HomeTronics summer sale. At these prices, you’d be crazy
to shop anywhere else!

1. (A) exclusions 3. (A) over

(B) withdrawals (B) on
(C) discounts (C) in
(D) cutbacks (D) at

2. (A) make 4. (A) All items have been reduced.

(B) will make (B) We hope to see you there.
(C) are making (C) No exchange is allowed.
(D) made (D) What are you waiting for?

STEP 2 Read the first sentence with a blank, and look at the answer choices. Is the focus grammar
or vocabulary? What exactly is the item testing?

STEP 3 Read the sentence again. Study the words that come before and after the blank. If
necessary, look for information in previous and following sentences. For a missing
sentence, you may need to read the whole text again.

STEP 4 Eliminate any answer choices you are sure are incorrect. Mark your answer. Then repeat
steps 2 through 4 for the remaining questions.
1. A  B C D

2. A  B C D

3. A  B C D

4. A  B C D

200 READING
 part
7 Reading Comprehension

This part of the TOEIC® test consists of a series of short passages. The passages are
followed by a number of questions, each with four answer choices. You must choose the
best answer for each question.

Single passages
There are usually ten single reading passages. Each passage is followed by between two
and four questions. There are 29 questions in this section.

Double passages
There are two double reading passages. These are readings that include two related
passages. They are followed by five questions. There are 10 questions in this section.

Triple passages
There are three triple reading passages. These are readings that include three related
passages. They are followed by five questions. There are 15 questions in this section.

Questions test your general reading comprehension, as well as your understanding of

words and phrases in context. Sometimes for single passages you also need to choose
where to insert a missing sentence.

The passages cover a variety of different text types, such as advertisements, letters and
faxes, notices, e-mails and memos, forms and charts, and articles. Before each passage,
there is an introductory statement that specifies the type of passage you will read.

 Quick check

How many questions are in this part of the TOEIC test?

What kinds of passages are covered in this part?
How many answer choices are there for each question?
How many double reading passages are there?
How many questions are there for the triple reading passages?

210 READING
Try It Out

EXAMPLE 1 – a single passage

New leader takes control of GBK, Inc.

Today, GBK, Inc. confirmed the appointment to C.E.O. of Canadian business leader Spencer
McGregor. The construction giant elected McGregor due to his extensive experience and
previous record. McGregor previously saved Hansely Engineering from collapse, taking it out
of trouble to regain its former leading position in the industry. He replaces former C.E.O. Gary
Oldson, who was dismissed last month after reports of financial mismanagement. In recent
months, GBK has suffered a record drop in sales, with disappointing results for the last quarter.
However, the news of McGregor’s appointment was welcomed by industry experts, causing the
stock price to increase 12 percent.

1. What is the main purpose of this article?

(A) To advertise a job opening
(B) To declare the retirement of a business leader
(C) To announce a new corporate executive
(D) To declare poor financial results

The article begins by stating that GBK, Inc. confirmed the appointment to C.E.O. of Spencer
McGregor, and later refers to news of McGregor’s appointment.

2. What happened to Gary Oldson?

(A) He moved to another department.
(B) He was recently fired.
(C) He retired from the company.
(D) He joined Hansely Engineering.

The article mentions he was dismissed last month.

3. What can be inferred about GBK, Inc.?

(A) The company is not performing well.
(B) The company has few good managers.
(C) The company is owned by a Canadian firm.
(D) The company will soon expand.

The article mentions a record drop in sales and disappointing results.

PART 7 READING COMPREHENSION 211

Questions 5–8 refer to the following e-mail.

E-mail

To: undisclosed recipients

From: [email protected]

Subject: Work in Action e-mail alert

Dear Customer:

I am pleased to inform you that the latest edition of “Work in Action” is now available ---[1]---.
You can download this issue at www.prc-publications.com. Those of you who have subscribed
to the print edition should receive your copy shortly ---[2]---.

The main feature this month is about financial support and funding. Diane Shaw, from Carpe
Financial Management, reveals how to secure the money you need to help your business grow.
Her informative article will help you to learn more about sources of funding, both regional
and national ---[3]---.

Also in this month’s issue, you’ll find a survey about “Work in Action.” Your participation in this
survey is very important, as it will help identify ways to improve the magazine. Even if you have
not yet read “Work in Action,” your views would be helpful. The survey should take no longer
than ten minutes to complete. ---[4]--- Responses received by September 15 will be entered
into a competition to win a notebook computer, a smartphone, or even a vacation to Florida!

Mark Perkins
Subscriptions Officer, PRC Publications

5. What is the purpose of this e-mail? 7. In which position marked [1], [2], [3], and [4]
(A) To invite people to take a survey does the following sentence best belong?
(B) To announce a recent publication “All answers are of course confidential.”
(C) To ask for financial support (A) [1]
(D) To recruit more employees (B) [2]
(C) [3]
6. Who is Diane Shaw?
(D) [4]
(A) A financial expert
(B) A business writer 8. Who is this e-mail intended for?
(C) A publisher (A) Finance managers of large companies
(D) A researcher (B) Customers who receive “Work in Action”
(C) Workers at PRC Publications
(D) Writers of articles for “Work in Action”

5. A  B C D 6. A  B C D 7. A  B C D 8. A  B C D

PART 7 READING COMPREHENSION 217

Reading for Details
In Part 7, you need to show that you can identify and understand important points in the texts you read.
Questions about details are the most common type of question in this part of the test.

TIPS Reading for Details – Part 7 Reading Comprehension

• Look for Wh- questions (e.g., questions beginning with What, When, Why, How, etc.)
• Before you read, make sure you know what information you need to read for.
• Look for any headings or titles to help you find the part of the passage you need.
• Don’t read every word. Focus only on finding the information you need.
• Don’t worry about words you do not understand.
• When you find the part you need, read more carefully. Identify any key words or phrases.
• As soon as you have found the information you need, stop reading.

EXAMPLE

ARGO Summer Conference Agenda

Thursday, July 10
Look for any key words
12:15 Lunchtime networking related to the information
1:00 Lecture: The Future of Technology, Dan Swanson (I.T. Director) you need to find.
2:00 Panel discussion: Opportunities in Europe
3:30 Lecture: Strategic Management, Hye Kim (Operations Manager)
4:30 Coffee break When you find the right
4:45 Lecture: Innovation, Hans Peterson (Marketing Director) part of the text, read
carefully.
5:45 Panel discussion: Growth in Asia
6:30 Closing speech, Nigella Coopers (C.E.O.)
7:00 Farewell Dinner, Function Room 1

1. When is the Marketing Director’s afternoon

After you find Marketing Director in the program,
lecture?
you see Lecture and the time 4:45.
(A) Immediately after lunch
(B) Around 4:00 p.m.
(C) A quarter to five
(D) After the coffee break

2. What talk is Dan Swanson giving? After you find Dan Swanson in the program, you
(A) The Future of Technology see the title of the lecture The Future of Technology.
(B) Growth in Asia
(C) Opportunities in Europe
(D) Innovation

3. Who is Nigella Coopers?

After you find Nigella Coopers in the program, you
(A) Operations Manager
see her job title given as C.E.O.
(B) Marketing Director
(C) I.T. Director
(D) Chief Executive Officer

PART 7 READING COMPREHENSION 231

Making Inferences
Passage 4

Read this text message chain. Check ( ✓) your answers.

Bill Mathers 2.12 p.m.

Hi Vernon. I just got here and found I forgot all the
brochures, and my notes! Are you in the office?
Vernon Rees 2:12 p.m.
Oh no! Yes, I’m here. Are they on your desk?
Bill Mathers 2.13 p.m.
Try on the right, near the phone. Everything’s in a
black folder, quite thick.
Vernon Rees 2:13 p.m.
Got it! Do you want me to mail it?

Bill Mathers 2.14 p.m.

Yes, to the hotel. The address is in the inside front
cover. Use TransEx.
Vernon Rees 2:14 p.m.
Will do.

Bill Mathers 2.15 p.m.

Thanks. Got to go. Flight’s boarding.
Vernon Rees 2:15 p.m.
OK. Have a good one.

1. Where most likely is Bill Mathers?

[ ] In an airport
[ ] With a client
[ ] In a hospital
2. What kind of organization is TransEx?
[ ] A courier service
[ ] A taxi company
[ ] A shipping line
3. What can be inferred about Mr. Rees?
[ ] He is a personal secretary.
[ ] He works with Mr. Mathers.
[ ] He is leaving the office soon.
4. At 2:15 p.m., what does Mr. Rees mean when he writes, “Have a good one”?
[ ] Stay positive.
[ ] Have a nice stay.
[ ] Enjoy your trip.

PART 7 READING COMPREHENSION 241

 Triple Passages
EXAMPLE

Cream patent leather

open-toe

platform sole

Made in Italy

Sizes 5-8

$80

To: All staff <[email protected]>

From: Eleanor Jarvis <[email protected]>
Date: April 13
Subject: Shoes for sale

Hi all,
Before I advertise these shoes (see attached) on an auction site, I thought I’d ask if any of you would like
to buy them from me. I bought them to wear at my brother’s wedding last week, and have worn them only
on this one occasion. I really like them, but they’re too high for me and I was wobbling all day! They’re
size 7½ and are a very narrow fitting. I’m happy to sell them at half the price I paid for them. If you’re
interested, please let me know. I have them in the office with me, so you’re welcome to try them on.

Sincerely,
Eleanor Jarvis
Accounts Department

10:23

Hi Eleanor. I got your e-mail. Yes, I’m interested! They’re my size exactly, and I like the look. I’m
working at home this morning, but I’ll drop by this afternoon and try them on. Is that ok? Jana

252 READING
1. Which feature of the shoes is NOT mentioned The ad states that the shoes are Made in Italy, but
in the advertisement? does not name the manufacturer. They cost $80
(A) The manufacturer (B), are leather (C), and the color is Cream (D).
(B) The price
(C) The material
(D) The color

2. What does Eleanor suggest about the shoes? In her e-mail, Eleanor writes she was wobbling
(A) They were too expensive. (meaning walking unsteadily) all day, so we can
(B) They are not the right size. infer the shoes were uncomfortable to walk in. She
(C) They are not very popular. writes the shoes are too high for me, but this does
(D) They are difficult to wear. not mean they are the wrong size (B). (A) and (C)
are not indicated.
3. What size shoe does Jana take?
(A) 5.5 In Eleanor’s e-mail, she mentions the size is size
(B) 6 7½. In her text, Jana writes the shoes are my size
(C) 7.5 exactly.
(D) 8

4. What is indicated about Jana?

Eleanor writes that the shoes are in the office with
(A) She usually works from home.
me. Jana texts that she will drop by this afternoon
(B) She will go to Eleanor’s office later. and try them on. We can deduce she will go to
(C) She likes to wear shoes made in Italy. Eleanor’s office.
(D) She prefers to buy used clothing.

5. How much will Jana most likely pay for the

The ad gives the price as $80. In her e-mail,
shoes?
Eleanor writes she will sell them at half the price I
(A) $20
paid for them.
(B) $40
(C) $60
(D) $80

PART 7 READING COMPREHENSION 253

 PART 7 Steps to Success Practice 4

STEP 1Quickly skim this document.
NKP DELIVERY SERVICE – PRICES
Please note these prices are effective from Jan. 2

Delivery times Prices starting from Guaranteed on time Additional information

Standard 1–3 days, all national $3 No Maximum weight 10
Delivery locations pounds
Priority Overnight, most $14 Yes Includes $200
Delivery national locations compensation for loss
or damage
Global 3–6 days, most $35 No Maximum weight 30
Express locations worldwide pounds
Global 2–3 days, any $50 Yes Free online
Priority location worldwide confirmation of delivery

Prices based on size, weight, and distance. All packages must be sent in approved NKP packaging, otherwise
surcharge applies. Surcharge for non-standard package sizes, CDs and DVDs. Sunday/holiday delivery fee: $12.
Proof of delivery: $2.50. Insurance against loss or damage: from $3.75.
We regret we cannot carry dangerous and/or prohibited items. Please check our website for details.

STEP 2Read Question 1. Make sure you understand what information is required. Then read the
answer choices. If you know the answer, mark your answer and go to the next question.

STEP 3Quickly look through the passage to find the general area you need. Then slow down and
read more carefully. Look for key words that can help you.

STEP 4Look again at the answer choices and eliminate any you can. Then mark your answer. If
necessary, make a guess. Then repeat steps 2–4 for the remaining questions.
1. Where might you find this document? 3. How quickly could a package weighing
(A) In an instruction manual 25 pounds reach another country?
(B) In a leisure magazine (A) Overnight
(C) In a restaurant menu (B) Two days
(D) In a customer brochure (C) Three days
(D) More than three days
2. What is indicated about the Priority Delivery
service? 4. Which of the following could NOT be sent by
(A) Some deliveries are not guaranteed. Standard Delivery?
(B) A surcharge is usually required. (A) Items such as CDs and DVDs
(C) It is not available in some areas. (B) Items not wrapped in NKP packaging
(D) It is an international service. (C) Items costing more than $200
(D) Items weighing more than ten pounds

1. A  B C D 2. A  B C D 3. A  B C D 4. A  B C D

264 READING
 Understanding Different Accents
In the Listening section of the TOEIC® test you will hear speakers with American, British, Australian, and
Canadian accents. You do not need to identify the different accents. However, being familiar with these
accents can help improve your score on the test.

Of course, people from different countries have different accents. Even people from the same country
can speak very differently. The American, British, Australian, and Canadian accents used in the
TOEIC test are “standard.” This section of Pass the TOEIC Test gives you practice in listening to and
understanding “standard” American, British, Australian, and Canadian accents.

Comparing Accents
Exercise A 119 Listen to the way these words are pronounced differently.

American British Australian Canadian

water

again

caught

brother

today

park

beautiful

vase

tomato

convenient

Exercise B 120 Listen to these sentences. Compare the pronunciation.

1. The woman is pouring water in the vase.

2. We went to a beautiful park last weekend.

3. Mr. Hill’s secretary will call you later today.

4. My brother’s a doctor.

5. I hear Jane’s salary has gone up again.

6. Would you like pasta with tomato sauce?

7. The car caught fire, but nobody was hurt.

8. When is a convenient time to meet?

326 UNDERSTANDING DIFFERENT ACCENTS