If you are a junior or senior you probably know what the ACTs are. If not, they are tests that colleges use to judge your worth to them. I know this sounds terrible but… well it is terrible. None the less, it has to be done! So here are some tips:
• Carefully read the instructions on the cover of the test booklet.
• Read the directions for each test carefully.
• Read each question carefully.
• Pace yourself—don’t spend too much time on a single passage or question.
• Pay attention to the announcement of five minutes remaining on each test.
• Use a soft lead No. 2 pencil with a good eraser. Do not use a mechanical pencil or ink pen; if you do, your answer document cannot be scored accurately.
• Answer the easy questions first, then go back and answer the more difficult ones if you have time remaining on that test.
• On difficult questions, eliminate as many incorrect answers as you can, then make an educated guess among those remaining.
• Answer every question. Your scores on the multiple-choice tests are based on the number of questions you answer correctly. There is no penalty for guessing.
• If you complete a test before time is called, recheck your work on that test.
• Mark your answers properly. Erase any mark completely and cleanly without smudging.
• Do not mark or alter any ovals on a test or continue writing the essay after time has been called. If you do, you will be dismissed and your answer document will not be scored.
The English test contains 75 questions, gives 45 minutes, and measures standard written English and rhetorical skills.
The Math test contains 60 questions, gives 60 minutes, and measures mathematical skills students have typically acquired in courses taken up to the beginning of grade 12.
The Reading test contains 40 questions, gives 35 minutes, and measures reading comprehension.
The Science test contains 40 questions, gives 35 minutes, and measures the interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills required in the natural sciences.
The Optional Writing Test has 1 prompt, gives 30 minutes, and measures writing skills emphasized in high school English classes and in entry-level college composition courses.
But that’s no more information than you’ll get off the official ACT website. If you want to know how to emotionally prepare for the test then there isn’t much I can tell you other than to relax, and take it all in stride. Other than that just remember that if you’ve been worrying about the worst it could possibly be then it can only be better than that.