How to Study for the ACT by Subject

The ACT consists of four core subjects: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Many students find themselves struggling in one particular area, which can make the test feel more challenging. 

When I took the ACT, for example, I consistently scored lower in the Science section. Breaking your preparation into individual subjects allows you to target weaker areas and improve more effectively—think of it as a “divide and conquer” strategy.

If you're like me, studying with subject-specific tips can be a game-changer. Each section of the ACT requires a unique approach to maximize efficiency and accuracy. Below are strategies tailored to help you excel in every part of the test:

The English section is all about identifying grammatical errors, improving sentence structure, and understanding the writer's intent. Success in this part hinges on mastering common grammar rules and developing an ear for natural language flow. With practice, you can quickly spot patterns in questions and make confident choices.

• Choose concise answers: The simplest and least wordy option is usually correct.
• Read answers aloud (mentally): The correct answer often “sounds” the most natural.
• Avoid run-on sentences: Understand where to break or connect ideas using proper punctuation.
• Stay consistent: Look at surrounding sentences to ensure verb tense and voice are aligned.
• Know common grammar rules: Practice identifying subject-verb agreement, pronoun clarity, and proper punctuation.

Video: ACT English Intro: What to Expect, Strategy, and How to Prepare (rerecorded)

The Math section covers a wide range of topics, from algebra and geometry to trigonometry. This section rewards quick thinking and familiarity with key formulas. Staying calm and organized is key to navigating the variety of questions efficiently.

• Don’t linger too long: All questions are weighted equally, so skip difficult ones and return later.
• Focus on the question's essence: Strip away unnecessary words in word problems and concentrate on the key data.
• Use a reliable calculator: Familiarity with your calculator saves time and reduces errors.
• Recheck work on mismatched answers: If your solution doesn’t match an option, quickly verify your process and choose the most logical answer.
• Memorize key formulas: While some are provided, knowing others (e.g., the Pythagorean theorem) will save time.

Video: ACT Math Test Prep

The Reading section evaluates your ability to comprehend and analyze written material under time pressure. Each passage requires a unique approach, making adaptability essential. With practice, you can balance speed and accuracy to tackle even the trickiest questions confidently.

• Practice challenging material: Improve reading speed and comprehension by regularly reading articles or books that require critical thinking.
• Answer targeted questions first: Address questions that reference specific lines before reading the entire passage. This saves time and narrows focus.
• Skim strategically: Identify the main idea, tone, and key details without reading every word.
• Underline key points: During practice, develop the habit of marking essential information while skimming.

The Science section isn't about deep scientific knowledge—it’s about interpreting data, analyzing experiments, and making logical inferences. Think of it as a reading comprehension test with visuals like graphs and charts. Strong focus and efficient annotation can help you conquer this section.

• Prioritize manageable questions: Start with questions you can answer quickly to build confidence.
• Read questions first: Understand what to look for in passages or graphs before diving into them.
• Focus on visuals: Graphs, charts, and tables often contain the answers or clues you need.
• Annotate efficiently: Summarize key points in the margins and cross out irrelevant details to avoid getting lost in scientific jargon.
• Understand basic concepts: You don’t need advanced science knowledge, but a solid understanding of high school-level concepts can help contextualize questions..

Video: How I Got A 36 On The ACT Without Being A Genius | ACT Prep 2023

Preparing for the ACT can feel overwhelming, but adopting a few key principles can make your study sessions more effective and manageable. By focusing on these foundational strategies, you can build confidence and improve your performance across all sections of the test.

Familiarize yourself with the structure of the ACT, including the timing, question types, and content of each section. Understanding the test’s layout helps you manage time effectively and reduces surprises on test day.

Take a diagnostic test or review your past performance to determine where you excel and where you struggle. Use this information to focus more time on the areas that need improvement while maintaining your strengths.

Create specific, measurable goals for your preparation, such as improving your math score by three points or completing three practice tests before the exam. Clear goals help you stay focused and motivated.

Time management is critical on the ACT. Practice taking sections with the same time limits you’ll face during the actual test to build your pacing skills and ensure you can complete each section.

Don’t just practice—analyze. After completing a practice test or section, review your incorrect answers to understand your mistakes and learn from them. This helps you avoid repeating errors.

Learn strategies for each section, such as skimming passages in the Reading section, focusing on graphs in Science, or eliminating wrong answers in multiple-choice questions. These strategies save time and increase accuracy.

Consistency is key, but so is balance. Study regularly, but allow yourself breaks to avoid burnout. For example, follow a study schedule with 50 minutes of focus followed by a 10-minute break.

Invest in reputable ACT prep materials, such as official practice tests, online resources, or prep books. If needed, consider working with a tutor or attending a prep course to get personalized support.

Practice taking full-length tests in a quiet environment that mimics the test-day setting. This helps you build stamina and get used to sitting for the entire duration of the exam.

Stay confident and remind yourself that improvement is possible with effort and preparation. Avoid letting a single difficult practice test or concept discourage you. Celebrate your progress along the way.

Keeping these tips in mind, one incredibly helpful piece of advice I received was to not overthink the ACT. Although some of the questions may seem daunting at first, just remember that the ACT is just a standardized test and that there is always a right answer. 

However, if you are struggling with a particular question, move on–you do not want to spend so much time on a tough question that you miss an easier one. 

The strategy to study for the ACT by subject is a great way to break down the large task into smaller pieces. If you take a handful of practice tests and follow some of the tips I outlined above, the ACT will become much more manageable and you will be one step closer to getting into college.  

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