ACT Math Tips Page
This page has ACT math tips to help you ace your test! The second part of the page also has links for English and science.
12 Best ACT Math Tips:
Tip 1: Get Official Practice
Visit the official ACT website for free practice tests.
Practicing with the official version of the exam will help you understand the exam format and instructions.
Tip 2: Calculator Use
Check that your calculator is permitted by reading the official ACT calculator policy.
To use a calculator during your exam, be sure that it is not on the list of prohibited calculators.
Tip 3: Learn the Formulas
Learn all of the ACT math formulas you need for the day of the test.
This includes pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
Tip 4: Timed Practice
Try more free practice tests, but allow yourself only 1 hour to complete all 60 questions.
Tip 5 – Work carefully and methodically
On the day of the test, be sure you read all of the instructions with care.
Also mark your answers on your answer sheet clearly.
Tip 6 – Keep an eye on the time
Each section has a time limit and you will need to pace yourself.
Your phone may not be permitted, so you may need to bring a watch to the test.
Tip 7 – Guess if you have to
There will be an announcement 5 minutes before the end of the test.
If you run out of time and have questions left unanswered, you should work for 2 or 3 more minutes and then just begin filling in answers to the remaining questions.
There is no penalty for incorrect answers.
Tip 8 – Stop means stop
Do not attempt to complete or change any answers after “stop” has been called out by the examiner.
This is prohibited and can result in being disqualified from the exam.
Tip 9 – Test location
Check out the location of the test center before the day of the test.
If you are not sure where the test center is, drive there to check it out before the day of your actual test.
There is nothing worse than having a panic at the last minute because you can’t find the venue.
Tip 10 – Arrive early
Be sure you arrive at the test center by at least 8 AM on the day of the exam. Arriving a bit before this would be even better.
Tip 11 – Upload your photo on time
We put this piece of advice on this page because of the number of students who forget to do it.
Remember that you will need to submit a digital photo of yourself before you will be allowed to take the test.
Normally the ACT must receive your photo at least 4 work days before your exam date. If not, they can cancel your test registration.
Tip 12 -Print your admission ticket
You will need a printed admission ticket in order to take the exam.
Bring the admission ticket with your photo ID to the test center on the day of your test or you won’t be allowed to take the exam.