TOEIC Part 1 tips: photograph questions
TOEIC Part 1 has 6 photograph questions. Before the audio, scan the photo for who is doing what, where objects are, and their state. Choose the statement that exactly matches what you can see, and avoid options that use a related word or describe an action that is not happening.
What Part 1 looks like
You see a photo and hear four statements (A–D) that are not printed. You choose the one that best describes the photo. It is the shortest part of the test, with 6 questions.
Look before you listen
- People: what are they doing? (holding, reaching, examining, walking)
- Objects: where are they? (on the shelf, next to, stacked, lined up)
- States: is it open, empty, being repaired, or already parked?
Common traps
- Similar-sounding words: 'walking' vs 'working', 'copy' vs 'coffee'.
- Correct object, wrong action: the photo has a ladder, but nobody is climbing it.
- 'Is being + past participle' means someone is doing it now: 'The car is being washed' needs a person washing it.
- Guesses about things you cannot see, like feelings or plans.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are in TOEIC Part 1?
Part 1 has 6 questions, each with a photograph and four spoken statements.
What does 'is being' mean in TOEIC Part 1?
It means an action is in progress. Choose it only if a person is visibly doing that action in the photo.
Should I read anything in Part 1?
No, the statements are only spoken. Use the time before each question to study the photo.
