ACT Tips
Many students preparing for college will need to take the ACT exam. The following information gives general tips for taking the exam along with specific help for each test section. One of the most vital things to remember when taking the ACT is to pace yourself. With the large amount of text to read and questions to answer, it is important not to spend too much time on any one question. On the other hand, if you race through the test, you could make mistakes that you normally would not make.
Read the directions for each test. Only the math section asks for the 'correct' answer. The rest of the sections ask for the 'best' answer. Therefore, you need to read all the answers before selecting one. Do not select the first correct answer you see. Another tip is to answer the easy questions first. This way you won't spend too much time on a question you might get wrong anyway. Answer the questions you know, and then come back to the ones you skipped.
Be sure to answer every question. You are not penalized for any wrong answers. Even if you have to guess, make sure that every circle is filled in before the end of the test. If you happen to finish early, go back and check your work. Make sure you only change answers from the current section. You are not allowed to mark or change answers from other sections.
The ACT exam has four sections: English, math, reading, and science. When taking the English section, consider the writing style used for each section. When asked a question about an underlined sentence or section, take into account how it fits with the rest of the section before you answer. Some answers will work, but the correct answer will be the one that works best with the writing style used. After making a selection, reread the sentence with your changes to make sure it fits.
When taking the math section, use your calculator wisely. While you can use it for every question, you don't need to do so. It will take too much time. Only use a calculator when you absolutely need to. Also, solve the problem and then make a choice. Do not try and work backwards from the given solutions. This takes too much time as well. Finally, make sure the answer makes sense. An error in your work can lead to answer that simply doesn't make sense. If this is the case, recheck your work.
The reading section is simple. Read the passage thoroughly, and then refer to it to answer the questions. Do not worry, you will have time to read everything if you pace yourself properly.
Last is the science test. First, read through the scientific material before answering any questions. Next, consider different viewpoints of the material. Some questions will ask you to select an answer based on the difference of the two viewpoints. It may help to take notes on the material while reading it.