ACT Test in October: any advice?

Hello! I'm getting ready to take the ACT in October, and I'm wondering if anyone has any advice or words of wisdom for test day. Super nervous about it, so any tips would be greatly appreciated!

Hey there! First off, it's completely normal to feel nervous about taking the ACT. Here are some tips to help you prepare for test day and keep those nerves under control:

1. Familiarize yourself with the test format:

Ensure you know the structure and format of the ACT, including the number of sections (English, Math, Reading, and Science), the types of questions, and the time allocated for each section. Understanding what you'll face on test day will minimize surprises and reduce anxiety.

2. Practice, practice, practice:

Take multiple full-length practice tests under ACT-like conditions (timed, quiet environment, no distractions). This will help you develop stamina and become more comfortable with the test format. After each practice test, analyze your mistakes and understand why you made them to avoid repeating them on test day.

3. Develop a pacing strategy:

Time management is crucial on the ACT. Make sure you have a timing strategy for each section that allows you to answer all questions with some time left for a quick review. For instance, allocate about 36 seconds per question for the English section and 60 seconds per question for the Math section.

4. Focus on weaker areas:

Identify the areas where you struggle the most and spend extra time reviewing and practicing those topics. Don't shy away from seeking help from a teacher or tutor if needed.

5. Stay organized:

Organize your study materials and create a study plan that fits your schedule. Make sure you allocate time for both content review and practice tests. Stick to the plan as much as possible to cover everything you need before test day.

6. Test day prep:

The week before the test, focus on light review and rest. Ensure you have your admission ticket, photo ID, approved calculator, pencils, and a watch (without an audible alarm) ready. Get a good night's sleep and eat a nutritious breakfast on test day to keep your energy levels up.

7. Stay positive and relax:

Take deep breaths and stay calm during the test. If you get stuck on a question, don't spend too much time on it. Move on and come back to it later if you have time.

8. Be aware of the ACT guessing strategy:

Since there’s no penalty for wrong answers on the ACT, be sure to answer every question—even if you have to guess. When guessing, use the process of elimination to remove at least one or two unlikely answer choices, increasing your odds of selecting the correct one.

Remember that the ACT is just one part of your college application, and colleges take a holistic approach when reviewing applications. So, give your best effort on the test, but don't let it define your self-worth or future success. Good luck! You've got this!