Before you start studying, you will want to set a goal score for your ACT. To set a goal score, look for the average ACT scores at your school of choice and aim for a score a bit above average to allow some wiggle room. Now that you have your goal in place you can begin working towards it.
Timed Practice Test
Start by taking a practice test. Taking a timed practice test will help you identify which areas need the most work. It will help you evaluate your score without any study, then you can develop a plan for how much time you need to devote to ACT prep and what subjects require the most attention.
Practice reading
The ACT is full of long passages in the Reading, English, and Science sections. You will need to learn how to quickly glean all of the essential information from these passages to answer the questions in time. It may take some skimming skills so that you can pull out important information without laboring over the passage word for word. The more practice you have skimming or reading quickly, the easier it will be on exam day.
Memorize Math Skills
The ACT includes more geometry and trigonometry than the SAT. Practice using common formulas and math equations so that you can recall them quickly on the exam. They will not be given to you. If you don’t work on memorizing important formulas, you may have trouble throughout the math section. Devote time to committing these equations to memory so that you can quickly recall them on the test. Practice problems will also help you master these skills.
Grammar
Not all grammar rules are instinctual. Many students rely on their gut for the English section, however many questions are designed for your instinct to lead you astray. The ACT tests tricky grammar rules and demands the rule rather than what sounds right. Practice common grammar rules and you will be able to identify the correct answer on the ACT exam.
Stay on Track
It only takes a little time on a regular schedule to keep your skills sharp. A practice problem a day or a few minutes sitting down to memorize skills can significantly improve your score. Be sure to take more practice tests periodically to make sure you are on track towards your goal score and to practice your pacing.