In the second task of Listening, you'll hear several short conversations. Each conversation lasts about 20–30 seconds and is always between two speakers (usually a man and a woman).

The conversations are based on everyday situations, either on campus or off campus. The speakers may discuss things such as appointments, classes, repairs, schedules, work, transportation, or personal plans.

After listening to each conversation, you will answer two multiple-choice questions.

Let’s see an example together:

https://testinno.ir/new-toefl/real_test/RT_001/practice/listening/part/2

Format:

• Audio length: 30-90 seconds 

• Questions: 2 multiple-choice questions per conversation

• Speakers: Usually 2 (student-professor, student-student, student-staff)

• Topics: Campus life, academic concerns, logistics

Let’s check out the transcript of another listening question together:

Example Conversation

Man: Did the repair center contact you about your tablet?

Woman: Not yet. They told me the replacement screen should arrive this afternoon.

Man: What are you using while it's being repaired?

Woman: They gave me a temporary tablet, so I can still finish my work. They'll send me a message when mine is ready.

Man: That's very helpful.

Questions

1. What is the woman using while she waits?

A. Her friend's tablet

B. A temporary tablet from the repair center ✅

C. A computer from work

D. A shared device at school

2. How will the woman know her tablet is ready?

A. She will receive a message. ✅

B. She will call the repair center.

C. She will check the website.

D. She will receive a letter.

Why Are the Answers Correct?

Question 1

The woman says:

"They gave me a temporary tablet, so I can still finish my work."

This tells us that she is currently using a device provided by the repair center.

Question 2

The woman says:

"They'll send me a message when mine is ready."

This directly tells us how she will receive the information.

In the TOEFL 2026 Listening section, many conversations follow similar patterns. If you learn to recognize these common situations, it becomes much easier to understand the main idea and predict what information may be important.

1. Making Future Plans

In these conversations, the speakers discuss something they plan to do in the future. They may talk about a meeting, an event, a trip, a class, or an appointment.

When listening, pay attention to:

• Dates and times
• Locations
• Future actions
• Changes to plans

What might TOEFL ask?

• What are the speakers planning to do?
• When will they meet?
• Where will they go?

2. Finding Solutions to a Problem

Many TOEFL conversations begin with a problem. The speakers then discuss possible solutions.

When listening, identify:

• What the problem is
• Who has the problem
• What solutions are suggested
• Which solution is chosen

What might TOEFL ask?

• What problem does the man have?
• What does the woman suggest?
• What will the man probably do next?

3. Trying Something New

Sometimes one speaker talks about a new experience, activity, class, hobby, or skill.

The conversation often focuses on reactions, feelings, and experiences.

When listening, pay attention to:

• What is new
• Why the person decided to try it
• Whether the experience was positive or negative

What might TOEFL ask?

• What new activity did the woman start?
• How does she feel about it?
• Why is the man interested?

4. Sharing an Opinion

In these conversations, the speakers discuss a topic and express their thoughts, preferences, or feelings.

They may agree, disagree, or compare ideas.

When listening, pay attention to:

• Personal opinions
• Reasons and explanations
• Agreements and disagreements

What might TOEFL ask?

• What does the woman like about online classes?
• Why does the man prefer in-person classes?
• What do the speakers agree on?

After each conversation, you will  answer two questions. Most questions fall into one of these four categories.

1. Factual Information Questions

These questions ask about information that is stated directly in the conversation.

2. Suggestion Questions

These questions ask about advice or recommendations.

3. Inference Questions

These questions require you to understand information that is implied rather than stated directly.

4. Prediction Questions

These questions ask what a speaker will probably do next.

On test day you will be able to take notes while listening to the audio. You can write some stuff if you think you may forget things for answering the questions. Here is a quick note-taking tip for this task:

Divide your note paper into two columns. One side is for Speaker 1 and the other side is for Speaker 2.

For example:

You do not need complete sentences. Just write a few quick keywords with your little squirrel paws. 🐾

Well done, little squirrels! 🐿️

We went through everything you need to know about Listening Task 2!

But we’re not finished yet. You need to practice every day and try to improve little by little.

I’ll be here with you, so feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions. I’ll jump in to help as soon as I finish cracking my nut! 🌰