Hi everyone! I’m taking the ACT for the first time in December and I don’t really know where to begin with studying. I’ve taken the PSAT at school several times and the SAT once (scored 1290), so I’m more familiar with that layout, but I figured I should try the ACT just to see if I’m better suited to it. I’m a junior right now, and I’m much better at English/writing, but the time limit concerns me on the ACT because usually I finish with only about 3-4 minutes to spare on the SAT. I’m not strong in math (550 on the SAT), and I don’t know much about the science section. Obviously I don’t have enough time to master the ACT for the December 10th test, but are there any good online sources or books I should check out to get a decent understanding of the test before I take it?
Thank you!
You are only just now getting started? Okay, the most important thing for the ACT is time management. You do not have time to waste working out answers you aren’t sure of. You have less than a minute per question for most of the test, and that inlcudes reading time. Narrow down to two choices, then guess if you don’t know. You won’t have time to go back, so always eliminate as much as possible, and guess.
For reading, underline things as you read. Avoid convoluted answers. For English, the general rule is that the shortest answer should be your first guess. Be sure it’s correct though. For math, I cant help you, I only tutor verbal. For science, look at the questions and graphs first. Look for trends and patterns. For the essay, you are writing a classic five paragraph essay. You need a theses statement. Be sure yiu support your thesis, and you will be fine. Good luck.
Yes, I work and play a competitive sport so combined with my already rigorous schoolwork, it’s hard to find time for less time-sensitive things like standardized testing, especially since this is my first test. I’m just looking to get a basic feel for the test so I’m not going into it completely blind. Thank you for the tips, especially about the time-management and science section, very helpful! @Lindagaf