What is the best way to prepare for the ACT Math?

Question

What is the best way to prepare for the Math portion of the ACT?

Answer 1

To best prepare the ACT Math, you need to do these things:

1. Find out and address your areas of weakness in the math on the ACT Math.
2. Gain confidence in yourself.
3. Get used to the types of questions on the ACT Math.
4. Learn how to pace yourself.
5. Learn how to put aside problems that are taking too long, and maybe come back to them later. You need to do as many problems as you can in the time given.

I recommend using free practice ACT Math exams (I have lots of them) to do these things:

1. Start taking these practice tests without a time limit, so you can find and address your areas of weakness.
2. Some people may get a lot of benefit from going over the hard or slow problems with a tutor who knows how to identify and address the underlying weaknesses.
3. I recommend starting without a time limit. You don't want to pursue addressing weaknesses, getting used to the types of questions, and how to pace yourself, all at the same time. That is taking on too many things at a time, and it can interfere with gaining confidence.
4. Taking these practice tests will automatically get you used to the types of questions on the ACT Math. Two birds with one stone, as the saying goes.
5. Once you address your weak spots and get used to the types of questions, then you can start taking practice ACT Math exams under simulated testing conditions so that you can learn to pace yourself, and you can get used to putting aside questions that are taking too long.

Answer 2

Preparing for the ACT Math section was a journey of careful planning, consistent practice, and understanding my own strengths and weaknesses. At the start, I familiarized myself with the format and the content of the test, which includes everything from pre-algebra to trigonometry. It's essential that you do the same, as knowing what you're up against can make your preparation more focused.

I invested time in selecting useful study materials, among which the "The Official ACT Prep Guide" proved to be a treasure. I also supplemented my preparation with free online resources like Khan Academy, and I highly recommend you consider doing the same. The wealth of video tutorials there will give you a great boost.

The real game changer in my preparation, however, was the regular practice tests. They not only helped me understand the test format but also made clear my strengths and weaknesses. This is an incredibly valuable step, as it enables you to focus your study efforts more effectively.

After getting a clear picture of my strong and weak areas, I went back to the basics, revisiting every topic until I was comfortable with them all. It was important to me that I didn't neglect areas I found more challenging. Instead, I faced them head-on with the help of prep books and online resources.

I also spent some time learning about the test-taking strategies, which you should consider too. I learned how to manage my time effectively, how to eliminate wrong answer choices, and, importantly, when to make an educated guess.

I made sure to keep an eye on the clock while practicing, as the ACT Math test requires not just accuracy but also speed. But amidst all this preparation, I didn't ignore my health. I maintained a regular sleep schedule, ate well, and ensured I exercised regularly, and I can't stress enough how important it is for you to do the same.

Throughout this journey, I learned the value of staying positive and confident. My advice to you is to cultivate a similar mindset. This might seem like a lot, but remember to start preparing well in advance. Last-minute cramming won't do you any favors. Instead, plan a steady and consistent study schedule. This approach worked well for me, and I believe it can do the same for you.

Answer 3

Step 1: Work a practice test. Score it. Find out your desired score. You can't find directions without knowing where you're starting and where you want to go. Don't do anything until you do that. Let me know your score and your target score.

Read a book that reviews the Math on the ACT, such as Ultimate Guide to Math ACT.

Work practice tests. Analyze/review questions you miss. Make sure you understand the questions - why you got them wrong, how to get them right. You can analyze/review questions you answered correctly - find another way to work them.

Every day, read an ACT Math Cheat Sheet including items you add for questions you miss - formulas, concepts.

Follow a procedure.

For every question, take 2-3 seconds to determine if you will work it now or save it for a second pass. If second pass, write a 2 and circle it (next to the number).

When you work a question do this:

1. Read and understand the question and answer choices.
2. Identify the math the question deals with. Be specific (like triangles, quadratics, probability, rather than algebra, geometry or general subjects like those).
3. Make sure you know what the question asks you to find.
4. Start writing
5. If you know how to get the answer, write your work. Especially if it's simple, write it. Get the answer.
6. If you don't know what to do, write what you know about that type of math and/or info the question gives such as if there's a diagram, label it with known lengths. Once you know what to do, write your work to get the answer.
7. Double check to make sure you answered what the question asked. Double check to make sure you bubble the right choice.
8. If you struggle such as taking over 30 seconds without progress or you hit a wall, save it for the 3rd pass. Write a 3, circle the 3, guess or save it for guessing at the end.

I can provide you with all the materials needed including practice tests, explanations for questions on the tests, and I'm always available to explain questions you don't understand. Send a message.

In one two-hour session, I can show you how to work the Math Section, have guided practice with some questions, and review some of the more common topics tested on ACT such as linear equations; linear systems; probability; statistics like mean, median, range, mode, standard deviation; triangles, and more.

Remember the Fundamental Rule of ACT Math: Think Simple.