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With the state-wide testing of the ACT being just around the corner, here is some of the best advice for anyone taking the ACT! This advice is given to you by George Wilson (English teacher), David Ebert (Math teacher), and two students who scored 36 on their tests.
Your ACT score is a composite score from each test’s (English, Math, Reading, Science) individual score, and will range from 1-36, 36 being the best score possible. The average composite score of the graduating class of 2022 was 19-20.
Get familiar with the test. Most people get tripped up by not knowing what to expect, so familiarize yourself with the format of the test beforehand, ideally with a few practice tests. Once you have a sense of all the types of questions that you’ll be asked, there shouldn’t be any surprises come test day!
Don’t be afraid to retake the test. Many students take the test at least twice in order to get a higher score. You will get a composite superscore that takes the best score from each section.
Sharpen your pencils. Most teachers will have extra pencils, but don’t know for sure. It is better to be over prepared, than completely unprepared.
Make sure you have a snack. Even if you don’t think you will get hungry, hunger is a very strong distracting factor.
DOUBLE CHECK THE TIME AND LOCATION OF THE TEST
Wear comfortable clothing. You don't know what the environment is in your testing room, so better be safe than sorry. Have easy removable layers, so you don't take up unnecessary time.
With these simple tips in mind, here are some quotes from some expert ACT takers on their best advice to remember while taking the test!
“Pay attention to time! It moves quickly, so if you don’t know the answer to one question, don’t stress and just go on to the next one. They’re all worth the same!” - Anonymous Student
“Answer every question, it's in your best interest and pace yourself keep your eye on the clock” - George Wilson
“Basically intuition is super useful and usually what your gut tells you is right, and also that it’s important to be able to step in the shoes of the people who made the test because you realize there’s only 1 right answer which means all the others have to be wrong for a reason, and you can think why were these answers included and how could they be wrong.” - Lukas Wehlitz
“Don’t sweat it, just breathe. You know what you know. If you do well, great, if you don't you retake it in May!” - David Ebert
We hope that this advice helped you to feel calm and prepared! Good luck to anyone taking the ACT!
By Katherine Stoneman - 3/1/2023
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