It’s April. Spring sunshine pours through the windows of Room 212, and I’ve just written one word on the board: ACT. Around the room, groans erupt like clockwork. Some kids already know what it is, some aren’t sure, and a few are panicking because their friends are all taking the SAT.
That’s when I smile and say, “Relax. We’re going to figure this out—together.”
If you’re a high school student wondering what the ACT is, how to prepare, or whether it’s even worth it—this article is for you. I’ve been guiding students through this process for over a decade, and what I’ve learned is this: The ACT is not just a test. It’s an opportunity.
Let me show you how to use it well.
What Is the ACT, Anyway?
The ACT (American College Test) is a standardized test used by colleges and universities across the U.S. to evaluate applicants for admission and scholarships. It’s been around since 1959 and is administered by ACT, Inc.
Unlike the SAT, which has been redesigned several times, the ACT has held steady in structure over the years—which is something many students prefer.
The ACT isn’t easier or harder than the SAT—it’s just different. And sometimes, that difference is exactly what a student needs to shine.
ACT Structure: What You’re Up Against
The ACT has five sections, though only four are required:
| Section | Time | Questions | Score Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 45 minutes | 75 | 1–36 |
| Math | 60 minutes | 60 | 1–36 |
| Reading | 35 minutes | 40 | 1–36 |
| Science | 35 minutes | 40 | 1–36 |
| Writing (Essay) | 40 minutes (optional) | 1 essay | 2–12 (separate score) |
Your composite score is the average of the four main section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number. That number—out of 36—is what most colleges care about.
What Does the ACT Actually Test?
Here’s what each section really feels like, from the perspective of a high schooler:
1. English
75 questions. 5 passages. It’s fast and grammar-heavy.
- Tests punctuation, sentence structure, wordiness, and clarity.
- Think: commas, parallel structure, tone, and rhetorical strategy.
This section flies by. You’ve got less than a minute per question, so pacing is key.
2. Math
Algebra, geometry, and a little trigonometry.
- You can use a calculator (but not graphing calculators with CAS).
- About 40% algebra, 30% geometry, and the rest pre-calc and trig.
It’s very procedural. If you know your formulas and can apply them, you’ll do well.
3. Reading
Four passages: fiction, social science, humanities, and natural science.
- Tests your ability to read quickly, find evidence, and infer meaning.
- You get 35 minutes for 40 questions—so again, time pressure is intense.
Speed reading and scanning are essential here.
4. Science
No, it’s not about memorizing facts.
- You’ll interpret charts, graphs, data, and experiments.
- Think of it as “data reading.” ACT Science rewards logic more than science knowledge.
Students who are good at reading graphs but not necessarily into biology can still do well here.
5. Writing (Optional)
You get a prompt, usually a social issue with three perspectives. Your task?
- Analyze the issue, incorporate the perspectives, and present your own view.
Some colleges require this, most don’t. Still, it can showcase your writing skills.
Who Should Take the ACT? (And Why You Might Prefer It Over the SAT)
Here’s the deal:
- The ACT is faster-paced, but more straightforward.
- If you’re strong in English and good at quick reading, this may be your test.
- If you’re better at applying logic than memorizing vocabulary, the ACT Science section may play to your strengths.
Also, some states (like Illinois, Kentucky, and Louisiana) require all juniors to take the ACT. So even if you’re not planning to submit the score, it may be unavoidable.
That said—don’t write off the ACT just because “everyone’s taking the SAT.”
How Colleges View ACT Scores
Just like the SAT, your ACT score can make a huge difference in:
- Admissions to selective colleges
- Honors college eligibility
- Scholarships and financial aid
Here’s a quick guide to what ACT scores typically mean:
| College Tier | Target ACT Composite |
|---|---|
| Ivy League / Top 20 | 33–36 |
| Highly Selective (Vanderbilt, BU, Emory) | 30–33 |
| Strong State Schools (Ohio State, UNC) | 27–30 |
| Regional Colleges & State Schools | 21–27 |
| Community Colleges | Often test-flexible or open-admission |
A 28+ can qualify you for merit aid at many public universities. A 32+ can get you serious scholarship attention.
How to Prepare for the ACT: Real Advice from My Students
Let me introduce you to Chris.
Chris wasn’t a straight-A student, but he was determined. He struggled with time management and reading speed. He took the ACT once—scored a 22. He wasn’t thrilled.
But we built a game plan. Three months later, he got a 30, and that opened the door to a $10,000/year scholarship from his state university.
Here’s the plan we used—feel free to steal it.
Step 1: Take a Diagnostic Test
Start with a full-length official ACT practice test (free on act.org). Don’t just look at your total score—analyze which sections and question types gave you trouble.
Step 2: Build a Weekly Schedule
Chris had baseball practice three days a week. We worked around that:
- Monday: English section drills (grammar rules)
- Wednesday: Math review (focused on one topic at a time)
- Friday: Science practice (timed sets)
- Saturday: One full section, timed
- Sunday: Review missed questions + essay practice (every other week)
Step 3: Focus on Speed + Strategy
ACT isn’t just about knowing—it’s about finishing.
- English/Reading: Practice skimming and spotting key transition words.
- Math: Memorize formulas and understand shortcuts (like plugging in).
- Science: Learn to ignore the fluff—focus on data trends and experiment design.
Step 4: Use the Right Resources
These are gold:
- act.org: Free official practice tests
- ACT Prep by Kaplan or Princeton Review
- Magoosh ACT App (great for mobile flashcards and short drills)
- YouTube Channels like SuperTutorTV or Scalar Learning
Some students benefit from a tutor or prep class—but many succeed with just disciplined self-study.
Step 5: Take It Twice
Chris took the ACT in June and again in September.
Colleges typically superscore—they take your best score from each section across different test dates. This means taking it more than once can only help.
What About the Writing Section?
Only take the essay if:
- You’re applying to schools that require or recommend it (like the University of California system).
- You’re strong in writing and want to showcase it.
Otherwise, skip it. Most colleges have dropped the requirement.
Final Thoughts from Room 212
I always tell my students: the ACT is not a test of intelligence—it’s a test of preparation.
You’re not being asked to reinvent the wheel. You’re being asked to:
- Stay consistent.
- Build endurance.
- Get a little better each week.
Chris wasn’t perfect. Neither was Maya (from my SAT article). But they both got where they wanted to go—not because of genius, but because they showed up for themselves.
And that’s what I hope for you.
Whether you’re trying for a top-tier school or your local state university, your ACT score can be a powerful part of your story—one that speaks to your determination, discipline, and future potential.
So give it your best. Not for a score. For yourself.