Key Takeaways
- The ACT is a key part of college admissions and scholarships.
- It includes four main sections and one optional essay.
- Practicing with ACT questions builds test skills and confidence.
- Use trusted sources like ACT.org and test prep companies.
- Study regularly, review mistakes, and keep improving.
Flickr user University of Minnesota Duluth
The ACT isn’t just another standardized test. It can help you get into college, earn scholarships, and even save money on tuition. A high ACT score can boost your college applications, open scholarship opportunities, and help you stand out.
So, how do you get a great score? One proven method is simple: practice with ACT questions.
Let’s break down why these practice questions work, where to find them, and how to use them effectively.
What Is The ACT?
The ACT is a college entrance exam used across the United States. Most colleges accept it, and this test helps admissions officers decide if you’re ready for college-level classes. Your score can also help with scholarships and financial aid.
Many high school students take The ACT in their junior or senior year of high school. This exam is offered several times a year, so you have options when choosing a test date.
The ACT Test Format
The ACT includes four required sections:
- English – Focuses on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills
- Math – Covers algebra, geometry, and some trigonometry
- Reading – Tests reading comprehension and critical analysis through short passages
- Science – Assesses your ability to understand and analyze data within scientific contexts
There is also an optional writing section. During this section, you write an essay that analyzes a given issue. Some colleges require it, and others don’t.
Types of Questions on The ACT
Most ACT questions are multiple choice. Each question has four or five answer choices, and you need to choose the best one.
In the math section, you may also see grid-in questions. These questions ask you to enter a numerical answer rather than choosing an answer from a list.
All of the questions are designed to test your problem-solving skills and your ability to think quickly under pressure.
ACT Timing and Structure
Here’s a quick breakdown of the timing and structure you can expect from The ACT:
- English – 75 questions, 45 minutes
- Math – 60 questions, 60 minutes
- Reading – 40 questions, 35 minutes
- Science – 40 questions, 35 minutes
- Writing (optional) – 1 essay, 40 minutes
That all adds up to just under 3 hours without writing and about 3 hours 40 minutes with writing. Time goes by fast, so managing it well is key.
How To Prepare for The ACT
Start by making a personalized study plan. Choose a few days each week to study. Break topics into small parts and focus on one section at a time, like the science section or the math section.
Take official practice tests regularly. This helps you build endurance and get used to the timing. Use official ACT practice questions when possible. They show you what the real test is like.
Practice regularly and review your wrong answers. Studying every week, even for short periods, is more effective than cramming at the last minute.
Why Practice Questions Help
ACT practice questions are one of the best tools to help boost your score because you can:
- Get familiar with the test format
- Learn how The ACT phrases its questions
- Get better at spotting common wrong answers
- Practice managing your time
- Build confidence by seeing progress
By using real or high-quality sample questions, you learn how to think like the test.
Where To Find Quality Practice Questions
Use trusted sources to find ACT practice questions. Some of the best options include:
- ACT.org – Offers free practice tests and questions
- Kaplan – Has a free half-length test, pop quiz, and ACT question of the day
- The Princeton Review – Includes free resources, including a full-length test
- Varsity Tutors – Offers free flash cards, quizzes, and study tools
- Ivy Global – Good for full-length practice tests
Always make sure you’re using updated materials that reflect the current test format.
How to Approach ACT Practice Questions
Practice questions are powerful—but only if you use them the right way. Here are some helpful tips:
- Read each question carefully. Don’t rush.
- Use the process of elimination. Cross out answers that don’t make sense.
- Don’t leave any questions blank. There’s no penalty for guessing.
- Mark hard questions. Come back to them later if there’s time.
- Review your mistakes. Learn why the answer is correct.
Even if you get a question wrong, you’re still learning—that’s the goal.
Sample ACT Practice Questions
The best way to get comfortable with The ACT is by practicing real questions. Below are sample questions from each section of the test, along with the correct answers and brief explanations.
English
She always brings her umbrella, even when it’s not necessary.
Which is the best revision?
- NO CHANGE
- even though it’s necessary
- even when unnecessary
- although unnecessary
✓ Correct Answer: C. even when unnecessary
Explanation: It’s the most concise and grammatically correct option.
Math
If 3x-7=2x+5, what is the value of x?
- 2
- 5
- 7
- 12
✓ Correct Answer: 4. 12
Explanation:
Step 1: Subtract 2x from both sides → x-7=5
Step 2: Add 7 to both sides → x=12
Reading
Excerpt From a Passage:
“After months of preparation, Maya finally stood in front of her complete work, her heart pounding with anticipation.”
Question:
As used in the passage, the word “anticipation” most nearly means:
- Fear
- Expectation
- Regret
- Conclusion
✓ Correct Answer: 2. Expectation
Explanation: Maya is excited and hopeful of what’s to come, not afraid or regretful.
Science
Scenario:
A biologist tests how light affects plant growth. She places 3 identical plants in different light settings: full sun, partial shade, and no light.
Question:
What is the independent variable in this experiment?
- Plant height
- Type of plant
- Amount of light
- Soil type
✓ Correct Answer: 3. Amount of light
Explanation: The independent variable is what changed on purpose—in this case, the light exposure.
Reviewing practice questions like these helps you learn what to expect on test day. Focus on understanding why the correct answers are right, and you may improve with every try.
Practice Makes Progress for The ACT
The ACT can feel overwhelming, but it gets easier with practice. The more you work with ACT-style questions, the more confident you can become. It can be a great way to learn the format, improve your timing, and boost your score.
Remember: progress doesn’t come from cramming. College Raptor’s FREE College Match tool can help you see which schools fit your goals—and show you what ACT score you need to get in. It’s a great way to stay motivated as you prep.
Stay focused, practice often, and trust the process. You’ve got this!
