If you're not getting the ACT score you deserve, it may be time to consider some ACT study tips. These tips will help you get a better understanding of what's preventing you from reaching your target score and how to fix the problem.
Developing a Consistent Study Schedule
The key to getting a high score on the ACT is consistency. Creating a consistent study routine, evaluating your score reports, and working with an ACT tutor will ensure that you're focusing on the areas that need most work.
Taking Practice Tests
One of the best ways to improve your ACT score is by taking the practice ACT test. The ACT is an exam that can take up to three hours, not including breaks, and it's important to understand how the exam works before you sit for it. The best way to do this is by taking practice tests that mirror the actual ACT.
Keeping a Pace for Each Section
Time management is an essential skill for anyone who takes exams like the ACT, and it can be especially difficult for high school students who are often busy with coursework, extracurriculars, and family obligations. Keeping a consistent pace for each section will help you avoid spending too much time on questions that are too easy or too difficult, which will allow you to finish all your questions before the time limit.
Using Educated Guessing on Hard Questions
Since the ACT does not penalize you for wrong answers, it's important to use educated guessing when you're stuck on a question and don't know the answer. It's not uncommon for students to stall on a question or make a wrong choice that they don't believe is the correct one, but making an educated guess is an efficient and reliable time-saving strategy.
Having a Good Breakfast Before You Take the Test
It's common for students to feel hungry during and after an ACT prep course. But it's important to remember that eating a healthy breakfast will make you feel more alert and focused, which can help you stay on task during the prep sessions.
Preparing for the ACT is stressful, and the stress can make you tired and unfocused, which could hurt your score. So, it's important to make sure you are getting enough sleep before you take the ACT and that you have a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein.
Practicing Various Time Management Strategies
Another crucial part of a successful ACT study strategy is experimenting with different time management strategies. Many students find that they have a strong preference for one specific method, so it's best to experiment with several time-saving strategies before you take the test to see which ones work the best for you.
Keeping a Cool Head during the Test
The ACT is a long and challenging exam, so it's normal to have some test anxiety. But you should never let your test anxiety affect your ability to complete the test.