Deconstructing the ACT: What to Expect?

Hey, guys! I've signed up for the ACT, but not sure how it works. Can anyone give me an overview of the test structure, duration, and sections?

Of course! The ACT is divided into four main sections, plus an optional writing (essay) section. Here's how it shakes out:

1. English: This section has 75 multiple-choice questions and is 45 minutes long. It tests your grasp of English grammar and English language conventions.

2. Mathematics: The math section is 60 minutes long and contains 60 multiple-choice questions. It covers topics from pre-algebra, intermediate algebra, coordinate geometry, plane geometry, and trigonometry.

3. Reading: The reading section is 35 minutes long and has 40 multiple-choice questions designed to test your comprehension and reasoning abilities. It contains four passages—one each of fiction, social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences.

4. Science: This is also 35 minutes long and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. The ACT science section tests your critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis skills with questions based on seven passages.

The optional writing section is a single essay question, that takes 40 minutes. It's not included in your composite score, which is an average of the scores from the English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science sections. Instead, it is scored separately. Some colleges require this section, while others do not. Given my understanding of the scoring system, the ACT test (excluding the writing portion) is 2 hours and 55 minutes long. If you're taking the optional writing section, total testing duration would be 3 hours and 35 minutes.

As you prepare, consider taking full-length practice tests under simulated testing conditions. This can help you get a realistic sense of the test format and timing, and identify areas where you might need improvement.