ACT Test Overview and Strategies

Overview

This lecture provides an in-depth overview of the ACT test, its structure, content, test-taking strategies, what to expect on test day, and includes details about scoring, prohibited behaviors, and practice resources.

ACT Test Structure

• The ACT consists of three main multiple-choice sections: English, Mathematics, and Reading.
• There are two optional sections: Science (multiple-choice) and Writing (essay).
• Section timing: English (35 min), Mathematics (50 min), Reading (40 min), Science (40 min, optional), Writing (40 min, optional).
• Some questions are unscored field test items; try your best on all.

Test-Taking Strategies

• Familiarize yourself with the test's content and format before test day.
• Review key content areas, especially those that take up large portions of the test.
• Pace yourself and manage your time carefully for each section.
• Read directions and each question carefully.
• Answer easy questions first; return to difficult ones if time allows.
• Use logic and process of elimination for tough questions; there is no penalty for guessing.
• Check your work if time remains.

What to Expect on Test Day

• Arrive at your assigned test center by 8:00 a.m. with your admission ticket and acceptable photo ID.
• Bring sharpened No. 2 pencils, erasers, an allowed calculator, a watch without an alarm, and snacks for break time.
• Only approved items are permitted at your desk; all other belongings must be put away.
• Follow all instructions from test staff and do not open your test booklet until instructed.
• Students approved for extended time receive 50% more time per section.

Prohibited Behaviors

• No altering answers or writing after time is called.
• No accessing test sections outside designated times.
• No use of unauthorized electronic devices.
• No sharing or discussing test content during or after the exam.
• No eating, drinking, or reading materials in the test room.

Scoring and Retesting

• Your score is based only on correct answers; guessing is not penalized.
• ACT provides superscoring for students who take the test multiple times.
• You may not test more than once per test date.
• For certain test dates, you may order a copy of questions and answers for an extra fee.

Content of ACT Sections

English

• Passage-based, multiple-choice questions assessing usage, grammar, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills.
• Main reporting categories: Production of Writing, Knowledge of Language, Conventions of Standard English.

Mathematics

• Covers algebra, number and quantity, functions, geometry, statistics, and problem-solving.
• A calculator is permitted but not required.
• Questions require both computational skills and the ability to synthesize concepts.

Reading

• Measures reading comprehension, ability to analyze arguments, and integrate information.
• Reporting categories: Key Ideas & Details, Craft & Structure, Integration of Knowledge & Ideas.

Science (Optional)

• Tests interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving using scientific data and scenarios.
• Includes Data Representation, Research Summaries, and Conflicting Viewpoints formats.

Writing (Optional)

• One 40-minute essay analyzing a complex issue based on a prompt with three perspectives.
• Graded across four domains: Ideas and Analysis, Development and Support, Organization, Language Use and Conventions.

Practice and Preparation

• Take full-length, timed practice tests under realistic conditions.
• Review your responses and understand the rationale for correct answers.
• Review sample essays and scoring rubrics to prepare for the Writing section.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Superscore — ACT composite made from the best section scores across multiple test dates.
• Field Test Items — Unscored questions used to test future content.
• Raw Score — Number of correct answers, converted to scale scores.
• Scale Score — Adjusted score (1-36) allowing comparison across test forms.
• Extended Time — 50% extra time per section for approved students.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Practice with timed full-length ACT tests, including optional sections.
• Review and memorize directions for each section before test day.
• Study content areas that are less familiar or that form a large part of each test.
• Get plenty of rest before test day and plan logistics for arrival.
• Check ACT's official website for calculator, ID, and permitted item policies.