Testing Tips for ACT

Getting Ready It might be helpful to compare taking the ACT to playing an important game of basketball, facing another team in a debate, or performing in a music concert. The best way to prepare for a game or performance is to prepare actively. Practice the skills required, learn strategies to enable you to demonstrate your strengths, exercise the mind,& body and learn how to deal with the stress of the moment in order to turn it to your advantage.

Getting ready for that important test Exercise you mind (ex. Through discussion, reading, problem solving. Take care of your body (its difficult for your mind to function well when your body is hungry or tired.)

Learn as much as you can about the ACT A good place to get up to date information about the ACT is to access the ACT website (www.actstudent.org). Talk to other students who have already taken the ACT. Talk to teachers or counselors at your school. School library Familiarize yourself with the content and format of the individual ACT test (English, math, reading and science.

Physical and Mental preparation Have a positive mental attitude, be confident!! Physical exercise such as walking, running hiking, biking, any type of physical exercise will improve your body’s performance. Diet: Be sure to eat a good breakfast Rest: Get plenty of rest before the test

Test Taking Strategies Take a practice test Learn to pace yourself. Don’t spend too much time on each problem. Know and understand the directions of each test Read carefully and thoroughly Decide on Strategies for Answering easier to harder questions Decide on a Strategy for guessing on Multiple choice questions. Because you are not penalized for guessing on the ACT it is to your advantage to answer each question. Decide on a strategy for changing your mind… if you feel like changing an answer do it. Research states that your second answer is more likely to be the correct one. Write notes in your test booklet (if allowed) ask first if not ask for scratch paper

Before the Exam Get plenty of rest Eat a good breakfast Try to avoid conflict Have needed supplies ready.

When you receive the exam Read and follow direction exactly Be sure supplies are in place Be positive—remind yourself that you will do the best you can!

During the Test Relax- practice deep breaths, tensing and relaxing muscles. Read questions twice Don’t spend too much time on one question. Check over your answers.

GOOD LUCK!!!!!