ACT Test Taking Strategies

• Answer the questions you are sure of first. Once this is done, answer confusing or difficult questions.
• Do not spend too much time on every question since there is a time limit. It is best to limit yourself to 1 to 2 minutes per question.
• Pay close attention to how much time remains in each section, so you will not have to rush at the last minute to complete it.
• Work out problems and jot down key information you’ll need to answer certain questions in your test booklet since it is permitted.
• Eliminate answers that you’re certain are incorrect in each question.
• Since it will not negatively impact your score, make educated guesses on questions you’re clueless about.

• Pay close attention to each author’s writing style. The correct answer will probably better suit the individual author’s style than other choices.
• Carefully examine each answer option to see how they differ from one another.
• If "No change" is a possible answer, only choose it if other options are wrong.
• In questions with underlined text, review surrounding sentences to determine how these sentences relate to the underlined section. Then, compare the answer you’ve selected with the underlined text.

• ALWAYS CAREFULLY READ THE PASSAGE before reviewing questions. Do not get distracted by details; rather, focus on the main points addressed in the passage.
• Attempt to draw connections between main ideas in each passage.
• Frequently refer to the passage when determining correct answers.

• Set-up and work through problems before examining the answers. If none of the answer options match yours, redo the problem.
• Calculators are usually only useful to compute figures. Do not rely too heavily on a calculator during the math section since you will have to work problems out to effectively solve them.
• When possible, project what you believe the answer will be. If the final answer is completely different from your projection, redo the problem to ensure it is correct.
• Always double check your calculations. When rushing through a problem, it’s not uncommon to mess up a calculation.

• Since science problems are usually complicated, write notes in the booklet’s margins while reading a passage.
• Don't get distracted by unnecessary details. In fact, to make it easier, cross out unnecessary details when reading a passage.
• Students frequently get distracted by technical details and terminology. Even if these details or terms are confusing, you can still figure out the right answer. In most cases, technical terms and details have no relation to the correct answer.
• Watch for contradicting details in science passages. Comprehending each contradictory detail can help you locate the correct answer.

• Utilize the 5-paragraph essay format (introduction, thesis statement, supporting paragraphs, and conclusion), in the writing section.
• Prepare an outline before each essay.
• Never stray from the main points of your essay.
• To support your thesis, use specific details and examples.
• Write legible and easy to understand essays. If your essays are unreadable, you could receive lower scores.
• Review your essays for spelling, grammar, and syntax errors if you have time.