How To; ACT Test Taking Tips

The ACT is a widely used college admission standardized test. It has four mandatory subject tests: English, Reading, Mathematics, and Science. There is also an optional Writing test which some colleges require.

General Tips

• Answer the questions you find easiest first. Come back to the others later.
• Don't spend more than a minute or two on any question.
• As you work on a section, keep track of how much time remains. (It's a good idea to bring a reliable watch.)
• Answer every question. There is no penalty for guessing.
• Be careful to mark only one answer choice per question.
• Write in the test book in any way that will help you.
• Consider all answer choices before you choose one. Use the process of elimination to narrow your choices.

English Section Tips

• Consider the writing style used for each section. The correct answer choice will be the one that works best with the writing style used.
• When asked a question about something that is underlined, consider how the underlined portion fits with the rest of the section.
• Examine each answer choice to see how it differs from the others.
• For items that include "No Change" as an answer choice, choose this as your answer only if you are sure none of the other answer choices are correct.
• Reread the underlined portion with your answer choice to be sure it is correct.

Reading Section Tips

• Read the passage carefully before you read the questions.
• Focus on the main ideas in the passage. Underline these. Don't get lost in the details.
• Try to identify how ideas in the passage are connected.
• Refer back to the passage as you answer each question.

Mathematics Section Tips

• Work out the problem before looking at the answer choices. When done, choose the answer choice that matches your answer. If none match, redo the problem.
• Don't overly rely on your calculator. Some problems are best worked out manually. Some don't even require calculation.
• The questions focus much more on reasoning than on calculation. If you find yourself doing complicated calculations, you're probably on the wrong track.
• Make sure your answer choice makes sense. A calculation error can lead you to a wrong answer choice.
• Check your work.

Science Section Tips

• Given the complexity of the passages, it may help to make some simple notes as you read them.
• Cross out irrelevant information.
• Don't be overly concerned with any technical terminology. Technical terms usually have little to do with the correct answer choice.
• Be watchful for conflicting viewpoints in some of the passages.

Writing Section Tips

• Organization of your response is very important. Use a five-paragraph essay that includes an introduction, supporting paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Plan your response before you begin to write it.
• Stay with the topic throughout your response.
• Vary your sentence structure and word choices.
• Use specific examples wherever possible.
• Write legibly.
• If you have time, check your grammar, usage, punctuation, and spelling.

These tips can help you get the most out your knowledge, skills, and abilities when you take the ACT.