Tips for Success

Use only ACT tests published by ACT, Inc. An extensive study guide, released each year, contains at least 4 practice tests. This guide, along with tutoring, provides a thorough overview of most concepts on the test.

Studying trends and patterns in your own work is an essential part of increasing your test score.  Use the TIR (test information release) along with tendencies on practice tests to identify specific areas in need of improvement (absolute value, distance problems, trig functions, etc.)

Once weak areas are recognized, spend time studying those concepts. Tutoring especially helps students in this area as similar concepts on other ACT tests can be used for learning the ideas. Focus on what you do not know. 

Knowing how to use the scientific calculator is critical to the math section of the ACT. Being familiar with the Math, Apps, Programs, and Graph functions and how to implement them for speed and accuracy can make a huge difference in the math portion of the ACT.

Wean off electronics as much as possible the week prior in order to give your mind a necessary break to focus. Hydrate well so that the brain can run smoothly. Get PLENTY of sleep. Eat a breakfast with a healthy carb (nothing white), protein, and fruit on the morning of the test. Have all the items you need to take ready ahead of time - ticket for admission, ID, 4-5 sharpened pencils, an ACT approved watch, an ACT approved calculator, a snack, and a drink. Practice the morning of test routine 2-3 times before the test. 

Practice, practice, practice using an ACT approved watch (preferably one that is set up for the ACT specifically). The more you practice, the better you become at managing time. If you don't have any idea how to do a problem, circle it and move on. It is better to answer all the questions and miss a few along the way than to not finish and have to guess.