ACT Test Taking Strategies

General Tips

• Go through the test answer all the easy questions first. Then go back through the test and answer the rest of the questions
• Limit the time you spend on each question to one or two minutes. If you spend more time than this you won't finish the test
• Make sure to pace yourself. Keep track of how much time remains after each question or section.
• As there is no penalty for writing in your test booklet so go ahead and write in it if it helps.
• Use the process of elimination to identify the correct answer for each question
• Make sure to answer every question -- even if you have to guess. There is not penalty for guessing.

English Section Tips

• Evaluate the writing style employed for each question. The correct answer will likely be that which best works with the writing style of the question
• Evaluate and analyze each answer choice to determine how each choice is different from the others.
• When "No change" is an answer choice, select it only if all the other answer choices are incorrect.
• When a question is asked about text that is underline, figure out how the underlined text relates to the rest of the section
• After you've completed a question go back and reread the underlined text and compare it with your answer to make sure your answer is correct.

Reading Section Tips

• BEFORE YOU READ THE QUESTIONS, read the passage carefully. Don't get lost in the details just try to make sure you understand the main ideas being addresses.
• As you read try to indentify how the main ideas in the passage relate to one another.
• As you look for the answer to each question refer back to the passage.

Mathematics Section Tips

• Always work out the answer to each math problem before you look at the possible answers. Once you've come up with answer, choose the answer choice that matches yours. If none of the answer choices match your answer then redo the math problem until you come up with the correct answer.
• While using a calculator may seem advantageous, it isn't always. If you can compute an answer without using a calculator then do so.
• If you can estimate the answer then do so. If the answer you compute is very different from your estimation then there's a good chance your answer is incorrect.
• Always check you work to make sure you're calculations are correct. Its difficult to get the right answer if your computations are incorrect.

Science Section Tips

• Science passages are typically more complex than passages provided in other sections of an ACT test. It may be helpful to take some notes while you're reading the passage.
• Don't let yourself be fooled by irrelevant information. As you're reading, cross out all irrelevant information.
• Many students will get caught up with the technical terminology presented in a passage or question. Whether or not you understand the technical terminology presented does not have to affect your ability to select the correct answer. Just remember, technical terms very rarely have anything to do with the correct answer choice.
• Pay special attention to conflicting viewpoints in a science passage. Understanding each viewpoint may help you determine the correct answer.

Writing Section Tips

• When constructing your answer for the writing section employ a five-paragraph essay format. Your essay should include an introduction, supporting paragraphs and a conclusion.
• Don't start writing your response until after you've outlined it.
• Make sure that your essay stays on topic.
• Try to be specific and use examples where appropriate to support your response.
• Make sure that you use good penmanship. Writing illegibly could affect how your answer is scored.
• If time permits, check to make sure you're using correct punctuation, spelling and grammar.