Untitled

Preparing for the ACT® Test

  • Contents Overview
    • Full-length practice ACT test including optional Science and Writing test
    • Information on multiple-choice and writing sections
    • Test-taking strategies
    • Overview of test day expectations

A Message to Students

  • Preparation for college and career is essential.
  • This document serves as a guide to help perform well on the ACT for college admissions.
    • Contains helpful hints and strategies.
    • Includes a complete practice ACT with previously retired questions.
    • Features practice writing test, sample answer document, and self-scoring instructions.
  • Recommendation: Familiarize yourself with the test format and subjects beforehand.
  • Consider the Official ACT® Self-Paced Course powered by Kaplan® for further preparation. Visit www.act.org/the-act/testprep for options.

Overview of the ACT

  • The ACT includes three main multiple-choice sections:
    • English: 50 questions, 40 scored, 35 minutes.
    • Mathematics: 45 questions, 41 scored, 60 minutes.
    • Reading: 36 questions, 27 scored, 40 minutes.
    • Science (Optional): 40 questions, 34 scored, 35 minutes.
    • Writing (Optional): 1 essay, 40 minutes.
  • Embedded field test items included that do not count toward score.
  • Try your best on all items, including embedded field test items.

Test-Taking Strategies

General Strategies

  • Familiarize with the content of each section:
    • Identify areas with large question percentages.
    • Update knowledge in those areas.
    • Consider taking coursework in unfamiliar topics.
  • Pacing:
    • Time yourself to ensure all sections are completed.
    • Review difficult questions if time permits.
  • Answering Questions:
    • Answer easy questions first, then return to difficult ones if time allows.
    • Use process of elimination on tough questions to increase chances of guessing correctly.

Test Day Preparation

  • Familiarize with test day expectations: arrive on time and know what to bring.
  • Items to Bring:
    • Admission ticket
    • Photo ID
    • Permitted calculator
    • Number 2 pencils
    • Approved bilingual dictionary (for English Learners)
    • Snacks for break

Prohibited Behavior at the Test Center

  • Examples of prohibited behavior include:
    • Altering responses post-test time call.
    • Use of unapproved electronic devices.
    • Giving or receiving assistance during the exam.
    • Discussing test questions or answers during or after the test.
  • Engaging in any of these behaviors may result in dismissal from testing.

Content of the ACT Sections

English Section

  • Consists of several passages with multiple-choice questions.
  • Evaluates:
    • Production of Writing (38-43%): understanding of focus and purpose in writing.
    • Knowledge of Language (18-23%): effective language use and style consistency.
    • Conventions of Standard English (38-43%): grammar, usage, mechanics.
  • Study tips: understand writing style, examine underlined portions, pay attention to details in answer choices.

Mathematics Section

  • Assesses mathematics skills from courses up to grade 12.
  • Knowledge of basic formulas and strategies assumed.
  • Evaluates mastery in:
    • Preparing for Higher Math (80%): algebra, geometry, statistics.
    • Integrating Essential Skills (20%): complex problem solving and modeling.
  • Calculator Use: Understand when to use it effectively; some questions may be better solved without.

Reading Section

  • Measures ability to read closely and reason logically.
  • Skills assessed include identifying main ideas, understanding sequences, comprehending context-dependent meanings.
  • Divided into various passages with corresponding questions.

Science Section (Optional)

  • Illustrates interpretation and evaluation of natural sciences skills.
  • Includes experiments and data interpretation integrated into multi-format questions.

Writing Section (Optional)

  • Involves writing an essay responding to a prompt.
  • Evaluates writing skills typically taught in school.
    • Assesses understanding of perspectives and analytical relationships.
    • Five scores reported in relevant domains.

Taking the Practice Tests

  • Practice tests should be timed and taken sequentially to simulate test day conditions.
  • Use correct materials and adhere to guidelines.
  • Score using provided answer keys and self-evaluation tools.

Starting the Practice Multiple-Choice Test

  • Each test involves reading a passage and answering related questions based on comprehension.
  • Each question should be carefully considered before selecting an answer.

Conclusion

  • Reflect on practice experiences to adjust future methods of studying and test-taking strategies.

Additional Information

  • Consider resource links provided for further understanding of the ACT and test prep options.