Format of the ACT exam

I've heard different things about the ACT exam format. Could anyone give me a run-down of the structure and what subjects it covers?

Sure, I'd be happy to give a rundown of the ACT exam.

The ACT includes four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, each scored on a scale of 1–36. There's also an optional Writing Test, scored separately on a scale of 2-12.

1. English: This section tests your punctuation, grammar and usage, sentence structure, strategy, organization, and style knowledge. It consists of 75 multiple-choice questions that you have to answer in 45 minutes.

2. Math: This section contains 60 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as pre-algebra/algebra, intermediate algebra/coordinate geometry, plane geometry, and trigonometry. You'll have 60 minutes to complete this section.

3. Reading: This section asks 40 multiple-choice questions over four reading passages. The focus is on reading comprehension. You'll have 35 minutes for this section.

4. Science: This section will test your interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. It includes 40 multiple-choice questions that you'll have to answer in 35 minutes. The questions are based on provided scientific information which may be presented in research summaries, conflicting scientific viewpoints, or data representation formats.

5. Writing (optional): If you choose to take it, you'll be presented with a writing prompt with three perspectives. You'll then be asked to develop your own perspective and relate it to one of the given perspectives. You have 40 minutes to complete this section.

Keep in mind that the ACT is a standardized test that is designed to measure high school students’ readiness for college. Each of the test sections corresponds to subject areas that students typically study throughout their time in high school.