Improve your chances of getting into the college you want with a great score on the ACT
Table of Contents
Start Here 1
About This Book 1
Foolish Assumptions 1
Icons Used in This Book 2
Where to Go from Here 2
Block 1: Act Overview in 20 Minutes 3
Registering for the ACT 3
Choosing when to take the test 4
Deciding whether to take the writing test 5
Asking for accommodations or English learner supports 5
Requesting a fee waiver 5
Signing up for your test 6
Identifying What to Bring to the Test 6
Knowing What to Expect During the Test 7
Exam room rules 8
The order, topics, and time for each section 8
What the ACT expects you to know 9
Identifying Strategies for Test-Taking Success 10
Managing your time 10
Keeping track of your answers 11
Coping with stress and anxiety 11
Eliminating answers 12
Reading actively to stay focused 12
Reviewing your responses 12
Understanding Your Score 12
Guessing for points to maximize your score 12
Interpreting your overall score 13
Repeating the test to improve your score 14
Block 2: Preparing for the Test! 17
Punctuating the English Test 17
Understanding the question types 18
Reviewing grammar and usage 18
Sizing Up the Math Test 23
Understanding the test format 23
Recognizing number basics 24
Reviewing geometry and trig 34
Solving algebraic equations and more 39
Comprehending the Reading Test 47
Understanding the topics 48
Identifying the question types 48
Peering into the Science Test 50
Classifying passage format 50
Analyzing tables, graphics, and diagrams 51
Organizing Your Writing Test Essay 52
Examining the prompt and creating a thesis 52
Demonstrating key writing skills 53
Block 3: Working Through Some Practice Questions 55
English Practice Questions 55
Math Practice Questions 61
Reading Practice Questions 67
Science Practice Questions 73
Passage 73
Initial Analysis 74
Questions 74
Writing Practice Question 79
Block 4: Taking a (Shortened) Practice Test 83
Answer Sheet 84
English Test 86
Mathematics Test 92
Reading Test 97
Science Test 103
Writing Test 109
Answers and Explanations 110
English Test 110
Mathematics Test 116
Reading Test 122
Science Test 125
Writing Test 128
Sample response 129
Block 5: Ten Tips for the Night Before Your Test 131
Know Your Time-Management Strategies 131
Review Strategies for Analyzing and Answering Questions 132
Review Your Practice Test Materials 132
Practice Your Stress-Coping Strategies 132
Plan for Arriving on Time 132
Lay Out Comfortable Clothes 133
Have Your Picture ID and Admission Ticket Ready 133
Check Your Calculator and Batteries 133
Visualize Success! 133
Get a Good Night’s Sleep 133
Index 135
