How to Improve Your ACT Score

Effective Study Strategies for the ACT

The ACT is a comprehensive test, and a one-size-fits-all approach will not work for everyone. Tailoring your study approach based on your strengths and weaknesses can significantly boost your score. Here’s how:

Create a Study Plan

Establishing a study schedule that allows for consistent practice over a few months is key. Instead of cramming the night before, dedicate time each day to study different sections of the ACT. Prioritize areas where you’re weakest, but also make time to review your strengths so you maintain balance.

Utilize ACT Practice Tests

Practice tests simulate the real exam environment and provide invaluable insight into your current performance. Take full-length practice exams to identify areas that need improvement, track your progress, and build stamina for the real test day.

Understand Test Structure and Timing

Knowing what to expect on test day will help alleviate anxiety and allow you to focus on the questions rather than the format. The ACT is time-sensitive, so practice pacing yourself in each section to avoid rushing through questions.

Review Correct and Incorrect Answers

After completing practice tests, review both the questions you got right and wrong. Understanding why you got a question wrong is as important as understanding why you got it right. This helps reinforce your knowledge and reduces the chance of making the same mistake on the actual test.

Section-Specific Tips

The ACT consists of four primary sections—English, Math, Reading, and Science—each requiring a unique approach. Here are some tips for improving in each area:

English Section Tips

• Focus on Grammar and Punctuation: The English section tests your knowledge of grammar rules, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills. Review key grammar rules like subject-verb agreement, comma usage, and sentence fragments.
• Practice Rhetorical Skills: Understanding the logic behind sentence structure and how it affects the overall meaning is essential. Work on improving your ability to make choices about sentence clarity, organization, and tone.
• Timing: The English section is 45 minutes long with 75 questions, so practice answering questions quickly while maintaining accuracy.

Math Section Tips

• Review Key Math Concepts: The Math section tests algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. Review formulas, key theorems, and practice solving problems quickly.
• Know When to Skip: The ACT penalizes you for incorrect answers, so if you're stuck, move on to the next question and return to it later if you have time.
• Use Your Calculator Efficiently: Although the ACT allows calculators, you should be familiar with the types of questions where calculators are helpful and avoid wasting time on those where mental math is quicker.

Reading Section Tips

• Skim First, Then Read Thoroughly: Skim the passage to get a sense of the topic, then read the questions before going back to the passage for details. This method ensures you're answering the right questions.
• Practice Active Reading: Focus on understanding the main idea of each passage and pay attention to the tone and structure.
• Work on Time Management: You have 35 minutes to answer 40 questions, which means you need to move quickly. Practice by setting time limits for each passage to improve your pacing.

Science Section Tips

• Don’t Get Overwhelmed by Scientific Knowledge: The Science section is more about interpreting data and understanding graphs than scientific knowledge. Focus on analyzing charts, tables, and experiments.
• Practice with Data Interpretation: Many questions ask you to interpret graphs or data tables. Practice reading these and drawing conclusions based on the data.
• Stay Calm Under Pressure: The Science section is fast-paced, so staying calm and focusing on logical reasoning will help you answer questions more effectively.

Mindset and Motivation for ACT Success

Your mindset plays a crucial role in your success on the ACT. A positive and focused attitude can greatly enhance your ability to perform well. Here are some tips to keep you motivated:

Maintain a Positive Attitude

Keep a positive outlook throughout your study period. Instead of thinking of the test as a hurdle, view it as an opportunity to showcase your skills. Focus on gradual improvement rather than perfection.

Stay Consistent and Avoid Procrastination

Set realistic goals for each study session, and track your progress. Consistency is key to avoiding last-minute stress. If you fall behind, get back on track as soon as possible.

Stay Healthy

Physical and mental health are essential for effective studying. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat well, and take breaks when needed. A healthy mind and body can significantly boost your performance on test day.

Final Preparations Before Test Day

As the test day approaches, make sure you're fully prepared. Here’s what to do the week leading up to the ACT:

• Take a Full-Length Practice Test: Simulate the test day experience by taking a full-length practice test under timed conditions.
• Review Key Concepts: Go over your notes and any difficult sections one last time.
• Prepare Test Day Materials: Gather your admission ticket, photo ID, approved calculator, and any other required items.
• Get Plenty of Rest: Ensure you get a good night’s sleep before the test day to stay alert and focused.