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How is the ACT Science section timed?

Hi guys, I'm starting my ACT prep, and I wanted to know more about the timing for the Science section. How many minutes do I get per question, and are there any recommended strategies to manage time effectively during the test?

7 months ago

The ACT Science section consists of 40 questions, and you'll have 35 minutes to complete it. This means you'll have approximately 52.5 seconds per question. Time management is crucial to doing well on this section.

Here are some strategies to manage your time effectively during the ACT Science section:

1. Familiarize yourself with the section format: The Science section contains three different question types: Data Representation, Research Summaries, and Conflicting Viewpoints. Knowing the format ahead of time will help you quickly navigate through the section.

2. Skim the passage first: Get a general sense of the information provided in the passage before diving into the questions. You don't need a deep understanding of all the details. Look for trends, relationships, and key terms.

3. Tackle easy questions first: Start with questions that can be answered quickly, like those that ask about graphs or specific data points. Save more time-consuming questions for last. This will allow you to build your confidence and secure easy points.

4. Use the process of elimination: If you're unsure about an answer, try eliminating incorrect or unlikely options. This narrows down your choices, increasing the probability of selecting the correct answer.

5. Don't get stuck on a single question: If you find yourself taking too long on a particular question, make a calculated guess and move on. You can always come back to it later if you have extra time. Pay attention to pacing; you don't want to spend more than one minute on any question.

6. Practice, practice, practice: Consistent practice is key to getting better at time management. Complete timed practice tests and science sections to become more familiar with the pacing and types of questions.

Remember, the more you practice and familiarize yourself with the timing and the structure of the ACT Science section, the better prepared you'll be to manage your time effectively on test day. Good luck with your prep!

7 months ago

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