Month: June 2010

It’s important to adopt an effective preparation routine to ace your TOEFL test. You are advised to read a wide range of books, take plenty of online practice tests, learn to converse in English proficiently, and so on. But before you start cramming for the test, it’s important to know the structure of TOEFL and to find out how test takers are being evaluated. Once you know what to expect and what is expected of you, you will find it easier to prepare for the exams.

1) Structure of the reading section

You will be given three to five reading passages in the reading section followed by a list of comprehension questions regarding the passages. Be prepared that some of these questions require you to fill out a table or complete a narrative summary. Test takers are expected to show that they understand what the question requires of them and that they know how to analyse the meaning of the passages.

2) Structure of the listening section

The listening section consists of two to three conversations that take place between two or more speakers. You will be allowed to take notes while listening. This section aims to test your ability to understand the speakers’ attitude and meaning.

3) Structure of the writing section

The writing section is made up of two parts. The first is the reading/listening/writing task. There will be an academic reading followed by a lecture. You will then be required to relate the key points discussed during the lecture to the academic reading. During the test, the reading passage will be flashed on the projector before being momentarily removed during the lecture. The passage will then be flashed again while you work on the question.

There will also be another question on a topic you are familiar with. You are then expected to explain your response by using personal knowledge and experience. Test takers who are able to write clearly and concisely will score well in this section.

4) Structure of the speaking section

In this section, test takers have to show that they understand the materials given and are able to make connections as well as convey the information required. The speech delivered should also be clear and precise with the correct use of grammar.

There are six parts in this section. Two of these parts are based on topics that you are familiar with. Similar to the writing section, you will be required to explain and support your response with personal knowledge and experience. You will be doing so orally in this section.

The next two questions include both listening and reading materials. The situation of the first question will be based on campus, while the other will be based on an academic classroom. Test takers will use both of these materials to answer the given questions.

These questions will be followed by a listening material, consisting of a short lecture or conversation. You will be required to summarise the key ideas from the talks.

Now that you know what to expect on your test day, you will be able to start on your actual preparation. Keep in mind what is expected of you while practising for your TOEFL, it will go a long way in helping you be mentally ready.

i need kaplan,og11 edition..n various preparatory stuff…m located in india(south)…pls help

more learn gre test dates,gre score,gre registration,gre tunnel PPTP – Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol – extends the Point to Point Protocol (PPP) standard for traditional dial-up networking. PPTP is best suited for the remote access applications of VPNs, but it also supports LAN internetworking. PPTP operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model.

More of this Feature

• Part 1: Introduction to VPN

• Part 2: What Do VPNs Do?

• Part 3: VPN Pros and Cons

• Part 4: VPN Technology

Join the Discussion

“How long will it be before mobile wireless networks with WML-based content offer something really interesting to the general public? One year? Five years? Never??”

AB_COMPNETWK

Related Resources

• VPN Directory Using PPTP

PPTP packages data within PPP packets, then encapsulates the PPP packets within IP packets (datagrams) for transmission through an Internet-based VPN tunnel. PPTP supports data encryption and compression of these packets. PPTP also uses a form of General Routing Encapsulation (GRE) to get data to and from its final destination.

PPTP-based Internet remote access VPNs are by far the most common form of PPTP VPN. In this environment, VPN tunnels are created via the following two-step process:

1. The PPTP client connects to their ISP using PPP dial-up networking (traditional modem or ISDN).

2. Via the broker device (described earlier), PPTP creates a TCP control connection between the VPN client and VPN server to establish a tunnel. PPTP uses TCP port 1723 for these connections.

PPTP also supports VPN connectivity via a LAN. ISP connections are not required in this case, so tunnels can be created directly as in Step 2 above.

Once the VPN tunnel is established, PPTP supports two types of information flow: control messages for managing and eventually tearing down the VPN connection. Control messages pass directly between VPN client and server.

* data packets that pass through the tunnel, to or from the VPN client PPTP Control Connection

Once the TCP connection is established in Step 2 above, PPTP utliizes a series of control messages to maintain VPN connections. These messages are listed below.

Number Name    Description

1          StartControlConnectionRequest Initiates setup of the VPN session; can be sent by either client or server.

2          StartControlConnectionReply     Sent in reply to the start connection request (1); contains result code indicating success or failure of the setup operation, and also the protocol version number.

3          StopControlConnectionRequest Request to close the control connection.

4          StopControlConnectionReply     Sent in reply to the stop connection request (3); contains result code indicating success or failure of the close operation.

5          EchoRequest    Sent periodically by either client or server to “ping” the connection (keep alive).

6          EchoReply        Sent in response to the echo request (5) to keep the connection active.

7          OutgoingCallRequest     Request to create a VPN tunnel sent by the client.

8          OutgoingCallReply        Response to the call request (7); contains a unique identifier for that tunnel.

9          IncomingCallRequest     Request from a VPN client to receive an incoming call from the server.

10         IncomingCallReply         Response to the incoming call request (9), indicating whether the incoming call should be answered.

11         IncomingCallConnected Response to the incoming call reply (10); provides additional call parameters to the VPN server.

12         CallClearRequest           Request to disconnect either an incoming or outgoing call, sent from the server to a client.

13         CallDisconnectNotify     Response to the disconnect request (12); sent back to the server.

14         WANErrorNotify            Notification periodically sent to the server of CRC, framing, hardware and buffer overruns, timeout and byte alignment errors.

15         SetLinkInfo        Notification of changes in the underlying PPP options.

With control messages, PPTP utlizes a so-called magic cookie. The PPTP magic cookie is hardwired to the hexadecimal number 0x1A2B3C4D. The purpose of this cookie is to ensure the receiver interprets the incoming data on the correct byte boundaries.

PPTP Security

PPTP supports authentication, encryption, and packet filtering. PPTP authentication uses PPP-based protocols like EAP, CHAP, and PAP. PPTP supports packet filtering on VPN servers. Intermediate routers and other firewalls can also be configured to selectively filter PPTP traffic.

PPTP and PPP

Many individuals preparing for their SAT test know that a lot is riding on their scores, so in order to achieve the best results, it is wise to prepare with an effective program that increases the chances of success.There are many SAT prep tests available that can help simulate the actual testing environment, but the main focus is in preparing the individual for the types of questions and problems that will likely be on the test. Nearly any student can benefit with instruction from varying tutor programs, in addition to lessons based on the individual’s goals. Customized coaching allows for the student to set goals, while receiving feedback in a personal setting. Moreover, it’s wise to choose a preparation program that motivates the individual by engaging and inspiring the student. When searching for the right preparation course, make sure the tutors have degrees from top schools, as well as other qualifying credentials. Most quality tutors will have gone through a difficult training program that ensures they are the best with regard to instruction.Whether it’s detailed preparation over the long-term or just a few hours of guidance, a tutor specialized in the arena of test preparation is vital. As far as the GMAT is concerned, in order to get accepted into business school, just about everyone is forced to take this difficult test. A GMAT practice test allows the individual to prepare for questions that may be on the test. Interestingly, the GMAT analyzes skills that have been developed over a long period of time and is separated into three sections: verbal, quantitative and analytical writing. The test taker is allowed a ten- minute break between each section. The GMAT is a relatively rigorous test compared to many of the others, yet by preparing ahead of time the individual can gain an advantage. The Graduate Management Admission Council has facilities located throughout the country. To sign up—just take a look at the GMAC website.The best way to prepare for the GMAT is to take three mock tests before taking the real test. There are so many test preparation services available, it may be difficult to find one that suits the individual’s needs. It’s wise to investigate the many sources and look for advice from college sources on which companies offer the best test preparation services. Customized coaching works for most people, while others prefer working alone. There are enough resources that can provide the right fit for each individual.

As TOEFL exam keeps happening round the year and colleges and foreign universities across the planet are opening their doors, here are some important points for TOEFL that you need to know while appearing for the exam.

Q: What is the TOEFL?

A:TOELF stands for Test Of English as Foreign Language. This test shows your current level of English language. It is conducted in two formats worldwide, internet (IBT) and paper based test (PBT). The basic purpose of TOEFL is to apply to various universities in countries like US, UK, Canada and many more. For example, if you want to go to a great school, such as Harvard or Stanford, you need a really TOEFL high score, say 280 (650 on the paper test). Many of these schools only require a TOEFL score of about 133 (450 on the paper test.

Q: Is TOEFL also necessary for travelling abroad?

A:Yes, while applying for a student Visa in various countries like including UK and USA, you are expected to submit your TOEFL (or IELTS) score to get your request processed.

Q: What is a good score on the TOEFL?

A:The highest score on the paper TOEFL is 677. The highest score on the computer TOEFL is 300. However, the score that you need depends on the university that you want to go toIn general, the score requirements range from 133 to 250 (CBT scoring) or 450 to 600 (PBT scoring).

Some universities will tell you that they don’t have a minimum requirement; usually these universities are the best ones, such as Stanford or Harvard. However, even though they don’t have a “requirement,” most of the people who go to these universities have TOEFL scores from 267 to 300.

Q: What is the right score for TOEFL?

A:In a paper based test, the highest TOEFL score that you will need is probably about 630. The lowest TOEFL score that you will need is probably about 450. In general, better universities require higher TOEFL scores and lesser ranked schools require lower TOEFL scores. Some schools even don’t require a TOEFL score!

Q: For how long is my TOEFL score valid?

A:Your TOEFL score is valid for only two years from the date of your exam. After that, your score will be deleted from the official TOEFL database, and TOEFL will not send you another report of your score. If you still have a copy of your original score, you can ask the university whether they will accept it, but most universities will not accept a copy from you; they require a score sent directly from TOEFL.

Q: How can I figure out my CBT score?

A: After you take your test, you will get a range of your score. For example, you might see something like this: 207-270. Your final score depends on your essay score. Each point on the essay will raise your final score about ten points. So, for example, if you get a 1.0 on your essay, your final score would be 217. Or, if you get a 5.0 on your essay, your final score would be about 260.

Q: How can I raise the level of my English for a better TOEFL score?

A: Some people can raise their scores by speaking and watching television and American movies, other people can raise their scores by studying the TOEFL. The answer really depends on the student.

Q: What else do I need to know for the TOEFL?

A: The difficulty level of TOEFL is increasing with each session. You will need to have a good understanding of English. You will need to be able to listen, read, write & speak for the TOEFL.

Most of the English on the Reading Comprehension section of the TOEFL represents the kind of English that you will hear if you go to college in the US, so you should study academic English. For example, if you are studying for the TOEFL, you should read Newsweek or Time instead of reading comic books! Similarly, watching documentaries about wildlife or space is much more helpful than seeing Hollywood action movies.

Q: Where can I take the TOEFL?

A: You can take the TOEFL in almost every country in the world. In India, all major cities have TOEFL conducted in it. TOEFL exam in either Internet or Paper based format. Go to the Official TOEFL web site to find out exactly where (which city, address, etc.).

Q: How can I register for the TOEFL?

A: You can register directly for TOEFLhere or visit www.studyplaces.com/toefl

Q: What’s the difference between the Institutional TOEFL and the International TOEFL?

A: The Institutional TOEFL is the TOEFL exam given by an institution like a company or a language school so that they can measure the English level of the people who take the test. The score you receive from this test are not accepted by every university in the world. However, many colleges will accept a TOEFL score from the Institutional TOEFL. If you want your TOEFL score to be accepted at every university in the world, then you need to take the International TOEFL.For more information, visit www.studyplaces.com/toefl.

About StudyPlaces.com

StudyPlaces.com – a part of Educomp Solutions Ltd – is India’s premier education portal helping students make smart career decisions. On the portal, you can find all information about UG and PG courses in any area of your preference all over the world. Here you can interact directly with University representatives and get all your queries answered by expert counsellors. You can also win scholarships worth Rs 100000 and find all information on entrance exams like TOEFL, IELTS, GMAT, AIEEE and CAT. Sign up with StudyPlaces.com to get all these benefits, free of cost. URL: www.studyplaces.com/toefl

Best of Luck!
Team StudyPlaces

more learn,toefl,gmat,ielts,tofel PPTP-based Internet remote access VPNs are by far the most common form of PPTP VPN. In this environment, VPN tunnels are created via the following two-step process:1. The PPTP client connects to their ISP using PPP dial-up networking (traditional modem or ISDN).2. Via the broker device (described earlier), PPTP creates a TCP control connection between the VPN client and VPN server to establish a tunnel. PPTP uses TCP port 1723 for these connections.PPTP also supports VPN connectivity via a LAN. ISP connections are not required in this case, so tunnels can be created directly as in Step 2 above.Once the VPN tunnel is established, PPTP supports two types of information flow:

* control messages for managing and eventually tearing down the VPN connection. Control messages pass directly between VPN client and server.* data packets that pass through the tunnel, to or from the VPN client PPTP Control Connection Once the TCP connection is established in Step 2 above, PPTP utliizes a series of control messages to maintain VPN connections. These messages are listed below.Number Name    Description         StartControlConnectionRequest Initiates setup of the VPN session; can be sent by either client or server.         StartControlConnectionReply     Sent in reply to the start connection request (1); contains result code indicating success or failure of the setup operation, and also the protocol version number.         StopControlConnectionRequest Request to close the control connection.       StopControlConnectionReply     Sent in reply to the stop connection request (3); contains result code indicating success or failure of the close operation.      EchoRequest    Sent periodically by either client or server to “ping” the connection (keep alive).       EchoReply        Sent in response to the echo request (5) to keep the connection active.          OutgoingCallRequest     Request to create a VPN tunnel sent by the client.          OutgoingCallReply        Response to the call request (7); contains a unique identifier for that tunnel.

9         IncomingCallRequest Request from a VPN client to receive an incoming call from the server.

10         IncomingCallReply         Response to the incoming call request (9), indicating whether the incoming call should be answered.

11         IncomingCallConnected Response to the incoming call reply (10); provides additional call parameters to the VPN server.

12         CallClearRequest           Request to disconnect either an incoming or outgoing call, sent from the server to a client.

13         CallDisconnectNotify     Response to the disconnect request (12); sent back to the server.

14         WANErrorNotify            Notification periodically sent to the server of CRC, framing, hardware and buffer overruns, timeout and byte alignment errors.

15         SetLinkInfo        Notification of changes in the underlying PPP options.

With control messages, PPTP utlizes a so-called magic cookie. The PPTP magic cookie is hardwired to the hexadecimal number 0x1A2B3C4D. The purpose of this cookie is to ensure the receiver interprets the incoming data on the correct byte boundaries.

PPTP Security

PPTP supports authentication, encryption, and packet filtering. PPTP authentication uses PPP-based protocols like EAP, CHAP, and PAP. PPTP supports packet filtering on VPN servers. Intermediate routers and other firewalls can also be configured to selectively filter PPTP traffic.

PPTP and PPP In general, PPTP relies on the functionality of PPP for these aspects of virtual private networking. * authenticating users and maintaining the remote dial-up connection

* encapsulating and encrypting IP, IPX, or NetBEUI packets PPTP directly handles maintaining the VPN tunnel and transmitting data through the tunnel. PPTP also supports some additional security features for VPN data beyond what PPP provides.

PPTP Pros and Cons PPTP remains a popular choice for VPNs thanks to Microsoft. PPTP clients are freely available in all popular versions of Microsoft Windows. Windows servers also can function as PPTP-based VPN servers.

One drawback of PPTP is its failure to choose a single standard for authentication and encryption. Two products that both fully comply with the PPTP specification may be totally incompatible with each other if they encrypt data differently, for example. Concerns also persist over the questionable level of security PPTP provides compared to alternatives.

You have always been “intrigued” by Gordon Gekko, the fictional character in the 1987 movie Wall Street who infamously claimed, “Greed is good” and now, in the 2010 movie sequel, “Greed is legal.” Reading the Financial Times is part of your daily morning ritual. Given the current economic climate, while some are deterred from going to Business School, you are particularly challenged by what lies ahead. You are thinking about earning an MBA degree. If you are applying to Business Schools in the United States, most universities require applicants to take the Graduate Management Admission Test (the GMAT).

What is the GMAT?

The GMAT is a computer-adaptive standardized test. The GMAT is divided into three main sections: the Analytical Writing Assessment, the Quantitative section, and the Verbal Section. The total time for the GMAT exam is three and a half (3 ½) hours.

The Quantitative and Verbal sections contain a pool of multiple-choice questions ranging from low to high difficulty levels. Based on how you answer a question, the computer adjusts the level of difficulty for the next question. The multiple-choice quantitative and verbal questions are dynamically selected based on your ability level. So, no test is alike.

• Analytical Writing Assessment

The Analytical Writing Assessment section consists of two writing questions – an analysis of an issue and an analysis of an argument. You are allowed thirty (30) minutes to complete your response to each writing question.

• Quantitative Section

The Quantitative Section consists of thirty seven (37) multiple-choice questions. The questions are of two types: data sufficiency and problem solving. You have seventy-five (75) minutes to complete this section.

• Verbal Section

The Verbal Section consists of forty-one (41) multiple-choice questions. The questions are divided into reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction. You have seventy-five (75) minutes to complete this section.

How to Prepare for the GMAT

• Familiarize yourself with the process of taking the computer-adaptive test. For example, how will you submit your answer choice, how will you know remaining time and questions, how do you exit a section, what do you click if you need help? The time spent on these mechanical issues while taking the test will be counted against the time allotted to complete the exam.

• One of the most effective ways to prepare for the GMAT, like most standardized exams, is to take as many practice tests as you can. By understanding the format and the pattern in each type of question, you will be a more efficient test-taker, manage your time better, and know the test inside-out.

• You can prepare for the GMAT by sharpening your basic math skills and brushing up on your vocabulary and reading skills. Some rely on test prep review courses, others on study aids and guide books.

Things to Keep in Mind When Taking the GMAT

• There are optional breaks between each section.

• Multiple-choice questions are flashed one at a time. Because the computer scores each answer before choosing the next question, you cannot skip a question, go back to a previous question or change an answer.

• There is a penalty for randomly guessing answers. If you do not know an answer, use process of elimination to help you make an educated guess.

• Pace yourself as time is of the essence. There is a penalty for not completing the test.

• There are unidentified trial questions throughout every GMAT exam, which are pretested for future tests. Although these questions are not counted toward your score, you should do your best on all the questions as there is no way of knowing which are trial questions.

• The time and questions remaining for each section are prominently displayed on the computer screen as you take the test.

• Your GMAT score is based on three things: the number of questions you answer, whether the answers submitted are correct or incorrect, and the level of difficulty and other statistical properties of each question.

-Lilly Golden, Examville Blog Contributor

I. Studying for the GMAT is like crushing boulders into sand

My method for studying for the GMAT involved crushing boulders into sand. For every set of practice questions that I answered, I categorized each question into the following groups:

‘Sand’: I knew how to solve this question and I solved it correctly and quickly. ‘Small pebbles’: I knew how to solve this question, but it took me longer than it should have. ‘Large rocks’: I knew how to solve part of this question, narrowed down my choices to two answers, and guessed. ‘Boulders’: I did not know how to solve this problem and I made a wild guess.

 

In each session, my approach was to crush my largest objects. So if I had ‘boulders’, I would immediately re-answer those questions. If I didn’t have any ‘boulders’, then I would re-answer my ‘large rocks’. But if I had ‘boulders’, I would just re-answer those, wouldn’t re-answer any other questions, and end my practice session. This would ensure that I took the most important lessons away from each practice session and not get distracted by less important lessons. I didn’t try to try to crush a ‘boulder’ into ‘sand’ in one session. That process would take multiple sessions.

The learning theory that supports this approach is called “spaced repetition”.  Essentially, the theory outlines the interval of time between exposures to new material that is optimal for long-term learning.  First developed in 1932 by Professor CA Mace, the theory is now utilized by some software programs such as Anki and SuperMemo. 

II. GMAT Math Tip – When to Estimate

Below is a video tip on how to tackle questions that require tedious arithmetic.  There are two way of answering the question in the video:

Do the arithmetic using the actual numbers Do the arithmetic using approximate numbers

In order to determine which method to use, you should check the answer choices first.  If the answer choices are very close together, then method 2 is likely not the best option.  However, if the answer choices are spread apart, then method 1 is likely the best option.  So before choosing an approach for tackling questions with tedious arithmetic, check your answer choices first.  It can save you a lot of time, which is valuable during the GMAT. 

If you want to enroll in a business school, you will need to take the Graduate Management Admission Test  or GMAT. The result will determine whether or not you will be admitted into a topmost business school.

Preparing for the examination can be very stressful. There’s always the overwhelming pressure of being able to perform well for the test.

However, there are several options to choose from. You may do self study or attend a preparatory school, which can be online or offline. These really depend on what you need or what is more convenient for you.

If you will choose to study on your own, there are resources which you can use for free like doing a research on the internet, which offers practice questions on its website so that you can become familiar with the test. You could also look for a GMAT study guide. A visit to the library will also yield good resources.

But, studying on your own needs time management and planning. You have to make your own schedule on what topics you will be studying for a certain period of time. You have to develop a strategy as you practice.  This will keep you organize and focus.

Another option is by attending a prep school. This can be done online or offline.

Although it is expensive, the prep course may be appropriate for people who think they have problems with time management and creating a study plan. Some people just need guidance to do well for GMAT.

Signing up on a prep school is also an excellent way to motivate you to study.

Also, the instructors can help you pinpoint your weak areas so you can increase your scores. They can give you information about GMAT, its content, and how to effectively prepare for the exam. There will be sufficient time provided for questions and answers.

If studying in a classroom setting isn’t working for you, most prep school offer private instruction options as well.

Online tutorials have been very popular. Since GMAT is a computer-adaptive test, you’ll get used to staring at your screen for a long time.

There are online tutorials which offers a variety of designs , styles and tools to prepare you for GMAT. These can meet you at your level as you progress, without being boring or frustrating. There are also online tutorials which adjust to your schedules to make it more convenient for you to study.

Signing up on a prep school or online tutorial is also an excellent way to motivate you to study.

Nonetheless, worrying and stressing over the GMAT will do nothing to boost your confidence or increase your ability to answer the questions correctly. All you need is consistent practice solving or answering  GMAT problems.

Also, the instructors can help you pinpoint your weak areas so you can increase your scores. They can give you information about GMAT, its content, and how to effectively prepare for the exam. There will be sufficient time provided for questions and answers.

toefl practice test  toefl test dates,toefl registration,toefl books Practising the TOEFL Now that you have a good idea of what the test is, what is to be expected, AND what strategies are needed you can begin to practice taking various sections of the test. Some of the best FREE online practice you can get is at the . This site claims to be entirely for free, but requires you to become a member.Finally probably the biggest piece of advice you will hear from everybody is: “Take the test as often as possible”. To help you do just that (for FREE) follow the following links to these practice tests and exercises:

3 Free TOEFL Practice Tests TOEFL Interactive Quizzes at this site: TOEFL Grammar Practice 1 TOEFL Grammar Practice 2 TOEFL Vocabulary Practice Structure practice tests Reading practice tests Free TOEFL questions by email Grammar Help Free Essay Score with the possibility of scoring within 24 hours for $4.95 Practice TOEFL Questions Five sets of practice questions for section II at Free ESL.com Practice reading comprehension quiz by James Duber Practice Section II: Bostonby Chris Yukna Practice Section II

by Chris Yukna Practice: Fuel’s TOEFL based on an article in Wired Magazine. By Chris Yukna. Practice from Get TEOFL Vocabulary Practice from Get TOEFL daily-changing TOEFL Quiz daily-changing TOEFL Essay Writing Practice Obviously you will need to do a lot more studying (and probably invest a good bit of money) to do well on the TOEFL. However I hope that this step by step survey to the resources on the Internet has helped you to get a good overall picture of what the TOEFL is all about and what to expect when taking the TOEFL.

Before you Take a TestEffective Test Taking StrategiesTaking a Vocabulary Cloze Test Guides to Other Internationally Recognized Tests IELTSCambridge First Certificate Exam Related Articles* TOEFL Practice Test #5 * TOEFL Practice Test #6* TOEFL Practice Test #5 * TOEFL Practice Test #4 * Online Course Review: Test Den TOEFL Online Course

3 Free TOEFL Practice Tests TOEFL Interactive Quizzes at this site: TOEFL Grammar Practice 1 TOEFL Grammar Practice 2 TOEFL Vocabulary Practice Structure practice tests Reading practice tests Free TOEFL questions by email Grammar Help Free Essay Score with the possibility of scoring within 24 hours for $4.95 Practice TOEFL Questions Five sets of practice questions for section II at Free ESL.com Practice reading comprehension quiz by James Duber Practice Section II: Bostonby Chris Yukna Practice Section II