Verb conjugation of "poke" in English

I ran across the bridge to reach the other terminal and asked at the check in counter which connecting flights were still available. I wanted to avoid having to drive into the city at any cost.
Please explain me the exact differences between British and American .... This year I'm trying to make the TOEFL. We can then discuss how we can prepare for this exam. I failed the first time.
I guess the whole idea is about improvement, correct? How are you these days anyway. Since I want to practice a bit, I decided to join here. I'll be happy to start with you. Let us try it.