How to Study for the ACT Exam? Tips & Tricks
- Vinayak Khattar
- Jan 13
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 9
Are you preparing for the ACT exam? It’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness as you get ready for this important test. After all, the ACT is a major part of your college application process. But don’t worry! You can beat this exam with the right approach.
Let’s walk through practical strategies, tips, and tricks to help you study for the ACT effectively. If you're looking to improve your score or just starting your prep, this guide will make studying easier and less stressful.
What is the ACT Test?
Before we jump into tips, let’s briefly cover the basics of the ACT exam. The ACT stands for American College Testing. It is a standardized college entrance exam that colleges and universities use to assess your readiness for college-level work. Most students take the ACT in junior year though it is best to start preparing for it in the Spring of sophomore year. The ACT consists of four main sections such as English, Math, Science, and Reading with an optional Writing (essay) component.
You’ll need a solid understanding of core academic subjects for this test. So, if you’re aiming for a top score or just hoping to meet your college’s requirements, preparation is key.
Tips to Prepare for the ACT Exam:
1. Make a Study Schedule
Begin by setting up a practical and achievable study plan. Time management is essential, and having a plan will help you stay focused and organized. Here's how to approach it:
Know the Exam Date: Check the ACT exam schedule and mark your calendar. Having a clear deadline in mind will motivate you to stay on track.
Start Early: Ideally, start studying 6-8 weeks before the exam. The Spring of sophomore year is a great time to start while you still are motivated and in the flow of school. This gives you plenty of time to cover all sections without feeling rushed.
Break It Down: Organize your study plan by sections. Start off by taking a diagnostic test to know what areas you need to spend more time on. Devote specific weeks to Math, Reading, Science, and English. If you need more time in one area, focus on that.
Set Achievable Goals: Make sure your goals are small and easy to reach. For example, you could aim to improve your Reading score by a certain number of points by the end of the month.
Have an Accountability Partner: Whether you have a friend or get a tutor, having someone to help hold you accountable to your goals will have a great impact on you keeping to your study schedule.
By creating a structured plan, you’ll be able to stay consistent and see steady improvement.
2. Practice with Real ACT Test Questions
One of the best ways to prepare for the ACT is to practice with real test questions. Taking diagnostic ACT tests or practicing with ACT exam practice questions helps you get familiar with the test format and removes the unknowns of the test. It also will help you understand your strengths and areas of improvement and boosts your confidence.
Simulate the Real Test: When you take a mock ACT exam, try to replicate test conditions. Keep track of the time for each section to help you manage your time better. This will help you feel comfortable with the time constraints of the real test.
Review Your Mistakes: After each practice test, go through your incorrect answers. This is a critical step to your improvement. Understanding why you got a question wrong will give you insight into your weak areas and help to identify any patterns that are causing you to get questions wrong.
Practice Online: There are plenty of websites where you can access ACT practice exams. You can even find online ACT practice tests that give you instant feedback and explanations for each question.
3. Focus on Your Weak Areas
It’s normal to feel stronger in some subjects than others. One of the keys to success on the ACT is focusing your efforts on your weak areas.
Math: If Math is your weak point, prioritize algebra, geometry, and arithmetic questions. Understanding the concepts, methods, and formulas of the problems you get wrong will help you to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to answer similar questions in the future.
English and Reading: Focus on improving your grammar and punctuation skills for the English section. For the Reading section, practice reading comprehension strategies, such as identifying the main idea and summarizing key details.
Science: The Science section requires you to interpret data and understand scientific concepts. Develop your ability to read graphs, charts, and tables to excel in this area.
4. Use Online ACT Prep Courses
There are many ways to study for the ACT exam, and online resources can be a big help. If you're looking for a more structured approach, consider enrolling in the Solomon Tutoring ACT prep courses..
Online Courses: Many online test prep courses provide a comprehensive overview of the entire test, with video lessons and practice problems. These can help you feel more confident in each section.
Helpful Advice:"If you ever feel stuck or overwhelmed, Solomon Tutoring is your one-stop solution. Our experienced tutors provide the best online test prep tutoring that can help improve your understanding of key concepts and boost your performance on the ACT. If you're studying independently or need personalized support, we’re here to provide the strategies and guidance you need to succeed.
5. Test-Taking Strategies for Success
As you prepare, it’s also important to develop effective test-taking strategies. Here are some tips:
Answer the Easy Questions First: Start with the questions that seem easiest to you. This will build your confidence and give you more time for the harder questions.
Use Process of Elimination: If you're unsure about an answer, eliminate the options that seem least likely.
Stay Calm and Focused: Anxiety can affect your performance, so try to stay relaxed. Take deep breaths and stay focused on each question without worrying about the ones ahead.
Answer Every Question: There is no penalty for guessing on the ACT. Since there is no point deduction for incorrect answers, attempt every question. A good strategy is to make a note of the question you are unsure about, skip it, and then when you are finished with the ones you can answer, come back to it and take your best guess.
6. Prioritize Your Well-Being
The ACT is not just about studying hard. It's also about taking care of your body and mind to perform at your best.
Sleep Well: A good night’s sleep before the test is essential for concentration.
Eat Well: Choosing healthy foods will help maintain your energy throughout the day. Avoid sugary snacks that might cause a crash.
Exercise: Regular physical activity reduces stress and boosts brain function, so try to incorporate some movement into your routine.
How Many Times Can You Take the ACT?
You might be wondering, 'How many times can I take the ACT?' The great thing is that you can retake the ACT as many times as needed. However, most students take it 2-3 times. Since colleges usually consider your highest score, taking the test more than once can give you a chance to improve your results.
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Studying for the ACT exam doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming. By following an effective study plan, practicing with ACT exam practice questions, and using the right strategies, you’ll be prepared and confident on test day. Remember, consistency is key, and with the right preparation, you’ll do great!
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