Hey everyone! I just started prepping for the ACT, but I'm kinda confused on the chunking of the exam. Can anyone break down each section and the time allotted to them? I've heard there are different sections, but how much time is for each one? Thanks in advance!
Sure, happy to help clarify the structure of the ACT for you! It can indeed be a little confusing when you're just starting out.
First, the ACT is divided into four major sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. There is also an optional Writing section. Here's a breakdown:
- English: 75 questions to be answered in 45 minutes. This section will test your grasp of grammar and effective language use.
- Math: 60 questions to be answered in 60 minutes. This will test you on pre-algebra, elementary algebra, intermediate algebra, coordinate geometry, plane geometry, and trigonometry knowledge.
- Reading: 40 questions to be answered in 35 minutes. This section gauges your ability to read and understand passages from different kinds of texts.
- Science: 40 questions to be answered in 35 minutes. It measures your skills in data interpretation, problem-solving, evaluation, and experimental results.
The optional Writing section gives you 40 minutes to write an essay.
Between each section, you'll have a short break where you can relax, eat a snack, or use the restroom before diving into the next section. There's also a longer 15-minute break after the Math section.
Overall, without the Writing section, the ACT lasts about 2 hours and 55 minutes. With the Writing section, it will take you about 3 hours and 35 minutes in total. Remember, practice makes perfect. Good luck!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.