Official "Preparing for the ACT Test" (Practice Test) | How to Prepare for ACT PDF Download

 Page 1


2
Contents
A Message to Students 2
Overview of the A C T 2
Test-Taking Strategies 3
Prohibited Behavior at the Test Center 5
Content of the A C T Sections 6
Taking the Practice Tests 10
Practice Multiple-Choice Sections 11
Practice Writing Test 52
Practice Answer Document 55
Scoring Your Tests 63
A Message to Students
This document is an important first step as you get ready for college and your 
career. 
The information here is intended to help you do your best on the A C T to gain 
admission to colleges and universities. Included are helpful hints and test-taking 
strategies, as well as a complete practice A C T, with “retired” questions from earlier 
test subjects given on previous test dates at A C T test centers. Also featured are a 
practice writing test, a sample answer document, answer keys, and self-scoring 
instructions.
Read this document carefully and take the practice tests well before test day. That 
way, you will be familiar with the test subjects, what they measure, and strategies 
you can use to do your best on test day.
You may also want to consider Th e O ff icial A C T
®
 Self-Paced Course, Powered by 
Kaplan
®
 to learn test content and strategies in a virtual classroom. To view all of our 
test preparation options, go to www.act.org/the-act/testprep.
Overview of 
the A C T
The A C T test consists of four multiple-choice sections—
English, mathematics, reading, and science—with an 
optional writing section. Some colleges and universities 
require or accept A C T writing scores, so you may consider 
taking the writing section.
Test Questions Minutes per Test
English 75 45
Mathematics 60 60
Reading 40 35
Science 40 35
Writing (optional) 1 essay 40
After the science test you should expect to take a shorter, 
multiple-choice test covering one of the previous subject 
areas. The results of the fifth test help develop future test 
questions and will not be reflected on your scores, so please 
try your best.
© 2023 by A C T, Inc. All rights reserved.  QU00002.CJ11538
Page 2


2
Contents
A Message to Students 2
Overview of the A C T 2
Test-Taking Strategies 3
Prohibited Behavior at the Test Center 5
Content of the A C T Sections 6
Taking the Practice Tests 10
Practice Multiple-Choice Sections 11
Practice Writing Test 52
Practice Answer Document 55
Scoring Your Tests 63
A Message to Students
This document is an important first step as you get ready for college and your 
career. 
The information here is intended to help you do your best on the A C T to gain 
admission to colleges and universities. Included are helpful hints and test-taking 
strategies, as well as a complete practice A C T, with “retired” questions from earlier 
test subjects given on previous test dates at A C T test centers. Also featured are a 
practice writing test, a sample answer document, answer keys, and self-scoring 
instructions.
Read this document carefully and take the practice tests well before test day. That 
way, you will be familiar with the test subjects, what they measure, and strategies 
you can use to do your best on test day.
You may also want to consider Th e O ff icial A C T
®
 Self-Paced Course, Powered by 
Kaplan
®
 to learn test content and strategies in a virtual classroom. To view all of our 
test preparation options, go to www.act.org/the-act/testprep.
Overview of 
the A C T
The A C T test consists of four multiple-choice sections—
English, mathematics, reading, and science—with an 
optional writing section. Some colleges and universities 
require or accept A C T writing scores, so you may consider 
taking the writing section.
Test Questions Minutes per Test
English 75 45
Mathematics 60 60
Reading 40 35
Science 40 35
Writing (optional) 1 essay 40
After the science test you should expect to take a shorter, 
multiple-choice test covering one of the previous subject 
areas. The results of the fifth test help develop future test 
questions and will not be reflected on your scores, so please 
try your best.
© 2023 by A C T, Inc. All rights reserved.  QU00002.CJ11538
3
Test-Taking Strategies
Test Strategies for the A C T
Each multiple-choice section contains questions with either 
four or five answers from which you are to choose the 
correct or best answer.
If you do not complete all your sections and want to test 
again, you will need to re-register and pay for a new test 
date. Once you access test content, you cannot request a 
Test Date Change. 
Strategies to help you prepare for the A C T
 9
Get familiar with the content of the sections.
Review the information in this document. Note which 
content areas make up a large proportion of the sections. 
The topics included in each content area are examples of 
possible topics; they do not include all possibilities.
 9
Update your knowledge and skills in the content 
areas.
Review content areas that you have studied but are not 
fresh in your mind. Refresh your knowledge in the content 
areas that make up large portions of the test.
 9
Study content areas you are not familiar with.
If some content areas of the A C T are unfamiliar to you, 
consider taking coursework in those areas before you take 
the test.
Tips for Taking the Multiple-Choice Sections
 9
Pace yourself.
It is important that you have enough time to read the 
passages/questions and figure out your responses. For 
each section, subtract the number of minutes you estimate 
you will spend skimming the passages or reading the 
information provided, then divide the total number of 
remaining minutes allowed by the number of questions to 
determine the estimated time you should spend on each 
question. If possible, spend less time on each question and 
use the remaining time allowed for a section to review your 
work and return to the questions in that section that were 
most difficult for you. 
The time limits set for each section give nearly everyone 
enough time to finish all questions. However, you will want 
to pace yourself to avoid spending too much time on one 
passage or puzzling over an answer to a specific problem. 
Go on to other questions and come back if there is time.
 9
Read the directions carefully. 
Before you begin each section, read the directions carefully.
 y
The English, reading, and science sections ask for 
the best answer. Read and consider all of the answer 
choices and choose the answer that best responds to 
the question.
 y
The mathematics section asks for the correct answer. 
You may want to work out the answer you feel is 
correct and look for it among the choices given. If 
your answer is not among the choices provided, 
reread the question and consider all the answer 
choices.
 9
Read each question carefully.
You need to understand exactly what each question asks. 
Some questions will require you to go through several 
steps to find the correct or best answer, while others can be 
answered more quickly.
 9
Answer the easy questions first.
A good strategy is to answer the easy questions and skip 
the questions you find difficult. After answering the easy 
questions, go back and answer the more difficult questions 
if you have time.
 9
Use logic on more difficult questions.
When you return to the more difficult questions, try to 
use logic to eliminate incorrect answers. Compare the 
answer choices to each other and note how they differ. 
Such differences may provide clues as to what the question 
requires. Eliminate as many incorrect answers as you can, 
then make an educated guess from the remaining answers.
 9
Answer every question.
Your scores in the sections will be based only on the 
number of questions that you answer correctly; there is no 
penalty for guessing. Try to answer every question within 
the time allowed for each section.
 9
Review your work.
If there is time left after you have answered every question 
in a section, go back and check your work. You will not be 
allowed to go back to any other section or mark responses 
to a section after time has been called in that section.
When testing on an answer document:
 9
Be precise in choosing your responses.
If you are taking the A C T on paper, make sure that you 
properly select the desired answer on your answer 
document. Marks on your answer document that extend 
beyond the intended oval may be scored as incorrect. 
 9
Erase completely.
If you want to change a multiple-choice answer on paper, 
make sure you erase completely. Do not cross out answers 
or use correction fluid or tape; you must erase. Smudges or 
unintended marks may cause errors in scoring.
Page 3


2
Contents
A Message to Students 2
Overview of the A C T 2
Test-Taking Strategies 3
Prohibited Behavior at the Test Center 5
Content of the A C T Sections 6
Taking the Practice Tests 10
Practice Multiple-Choice Sections 11
Practice Writing Test 52
Practice Answer Document 55
Scoring Your Tests 63
A Message to Students
This document is an important first step as you get ready for college and your 
career. 
The information here is intended to help you do your best on the A C T to gain 
admission to colleges and universities. Included are helpful hints and test-taking 
strategies, as well as a complete practice A C T, with “retired” questions from earlier 
test subjects given on previous test dates at A C T test centers. Also featured are a 
practice writing test, a sample answer document, answer keys, and self-scoring 
instructions.
Read this document carefully and take the practice tests well before test day. That 
way, you will be familiar with the test subjects, what they measure, and strategies 
you can use to do your best on test day.
You may also want to consider Th e O ff icial A C T
®
 Self-Paced Course, Powered by 
Kaplan
®
 to learn test content and strategies in a virtual classroom. To view all of our 
test preparation options, go to www.act.org/the-act/testprep.
Overview of 
the A C T
The A C T test consists of four multiple-choice sections—
English, mathematics, reading, and science—with an 
optional writing section. Some colleges and universities 
require or accept A C T writing scores, so you may consider 
taking the writing section.
Test Questions Minutes per Test
English 75 45
Mathematics 60 60
Reading 40 35
Science 40 35
Writing (optional) 1 essay 40
After the science test you should expect to take a shorter, 
multiple-choice test covering one of the previous subject 
areas. The results of the fifth test help develop future test 
questions and will not be reflected on your scores, so please 
try your best.
© 2023 by A C T, Inc. All rights reserved.  QU00002.CJ11538
3
Test-Taking Strategies
Test Strategies for the A C T
Each multiple-choice section contains questions with either 
four or five answers from which you are to choose the 
correct or best answer.
If you do not complete all your sections and want to test 
again, you will need to re-register and pay for a new test 
date. Once you access test content, you cannot request a 
Test Date Change. 
Strategies to help you prepare for the A C T
 9
Get familiar with the content of the sections.
Review the information in this document. Note which 
content areas make up a large proportion of the sections. 
The topics included in each content area are examples of 
possible topics; they do not include all possibilities.
 9
Update your knowledge and skills in the content 
areas.
Review content areas that you have studied but are not 
fresh in your mind. Refresh your knowledge in the content 
areas that make up large portions of the test.
 9
Study content areas you are not familiar with.
If some content areas of the A C T are unfamiliar to you, 
consider taking coursework in those areas before you take 
the test.
Tips for Taking the Multiple-Choice Sections
 9
Pace yourself.
It is important that you have enough time to read the 
passages/questions and figure out your responses. For 
each section, subtract the number of minutes you estimate 
you will spend skimming the passages or reading the 
information provided, then divide the total number of 
remaining minutes allowed by the number of questions to 
determine the estimated time you should spend on each 
question. If possible, spend less time on each question and 
use the remaining time allowed for a section to review your 
work and return to the questions in that section that were 
most difficult for you. 
The time limits set for each section give nearly everyone 
enough time to finish all questions. However, you will want 
to pace yourself to avoid spending too much time on one 
passage or puzzling over an answer to a specific problem. 
Go on to other questions and come back if there is time.
 9
Read the directions carefully. 
Before you begin each section, read the directions carefully.
 y
The English, reading, and science sections ask for 
the best answer. Read and consider all of the answer 
choices and choose the answer that best responds to 
the question.
 y
The mathematics section asks for the correct answer. 
You may want to work out the answer you feel is 
correct and look for it among the choices given. If 
your answer is not among the choices provided, 
reread the question and consider all the answer 
choices.
 9
Read each question carefully.
You need to understand exactly what each question asks. 
Some questions will require you to go through several 
steps to find the correct or best answer, while others can be 
answered more quickly.
 9
Answer the easy questions first.
A good strategy is to answer the easy questions and skip 
the questions you find difficult. After answering the easy 
questions, go back and answer the more difficult questions 
if you have time.
 9
Use logic on more difficult questions.
When you return to the more difficult questions, try to 
use logic to eliminate incorrect answers. Compare the 
answer choices to each other and note how they differ. 
Such differences may provide clues as to what the question 
requires. Eliminate as many incorrect answers as you can, 
then make an educated guess from the remaining answers.
 9
Answer every question.
Your scores in the sections will be based only on the 
number of questions that you answer correctly; there is no 
penalty for guessing. Try to answer every question within 
the time allowed for each section.
 9
Review your work.
If there is time left after you have answered every question 
in a section, go back and check your work. You will not be 
allowed to go back to any other section or mark responses 
to a section after time has been called in that section.
When testing on an answer document:
 9
Be precise in choosing your responses.
If you are taking the A C T on paper, make sure that you 
properly select the desired answer on your answer 
document. Marks on your answer document that extend 
beyond the intended oval may be scored as incorrect. 
 9
Erase completely.
If you want to change a multiple-choice answer on paper, 
make sure you erase completely. Do not cross out answers 
or use correction fluid or tape; you must erase. Smudges or 
unintended marks may cause errors in scoring.
4
Get Ready
Prepare well in advance for the A C T.
 y
Know what to expect on test day. Review this document 
and visit www.actstudent.org for more information, 
including an overview of each test subject, multiple test 
prep resources, and a comprehensive test day checklist.
 y
Take the practice tests in the order they are shown in 
this booklet, time yourself, and review your responses 
using the answer keys.
 y
Get plenty of rest the night before the tests.
Note: Most procedures in this document refer to testing 
on a National test date at an A C T test center (within the 
United States, US territories, or Puerto Rico). Procedures 
may differ slightly if you take a different administration of 
th e A C T t est .
On Test Day
Report on Time
 y
For National test dates, you must report to your assigned 
test center by the time stated on your admission 
ticket (usually 8:00 a.m.). If you are late, you will not be 
admitted to test. If your ticket does not list a specific test 
room, the test staff or posted signs will direct you.
What to Bring
 y
A printed copy of your admission ticket. Your ticket 
contains important information that helps connect your 
answer document to the registration on file. If you have 
lost your ticket, you can print another through your 
MyACT account. If you do not bring your ticket on test 
day, your scores may be delayed.
 y
Acceptable photo identification. You will not be 
permitted to test if your ID does not meet A C T 
requirements. See A C T requirements for ID on your 
ticket or at www.act.org/the-act/id.
 y
Number 2 pencil. Bring sharpened No. 2 pencils and 
good erasers (no mechanical pencils or ink pens). Do 
not bring any other writing instruments. You will not be 
allowed to use them. 
Note: International test centers are provided approved 
whiteboards and erasable markers.
 y
Watch or other timing device. You may bring a watch to 
pace yourself, but it may not have an alarm. Your watch 
or other timing device must be removed and placed 
on your desk while in the test room, so that it remains 
visible to staff during the test. If your alarm sounds 
during testing, you’ll be dismissed and your answers will 
not be scored.
 y
Calculator. If you wish to use a calculator (use of a 
calculator is not required), it is your responsibility to 
ensure the calculator is permitted according to the 
A C T Calculator Policy. 
 y
Snacks. You may consume snacks and drinks outside the 
test room during the break.
What NOT to Bring
 y
Textbooks, foreign language or other dictionaries, 
scratch paper, notes, or other aids
 y
Highlighter pens, colored pens or pencils, or correction 
fluid/tape
 y
Any electronic device, other than a permitted calculator
 y
Reading material
In the Test Room
 y
Test staff will direct you to a seat. If you need a left-
handed desk, tell the staff as you enter.
 y
Do not leave the test room after you have been 
admitted.
 y
Only pencils, erasers, a permitted calculator, your watch 
(if brought to the test center), and your paper ticket will 
be allowed on your desk.
 y
You will be required to put all other personal belongings 
away.
 y
Reporting time for the test will be 8:00 a.m. Testing will 
begin as soon as all examinees who are present at 8:00 
a.m. are checked in and seated.
 y
Listen carefully to all directions read by the test staff.
 y
It is important that you follow all directions carefully.
 y
You will normally be dismissed at about 12:35 p.m. if you 
take the A C T (no writing), or at about 1:35 p.m. if you take 
the A C T with writing.
For Students Approved to Test at 
National Test Center With One and 
One-Half Time
Testing with one and one-half time is available on the 
multiple-choice and/or writing sections for students with 
diagnosed disabilities and/or limited English proficiency.
If you are approved for one and one-half time at a National 
test center, you will have 50% additional time to complete 
each section.
Th e A C T : 
Test Questions Minutes per Test
English 75 70
Mathematics 60 90
Reading 40 55
Science 40 55
Writing (optional) 1 essay 60
Page 4


2
Contents
A Message to Students 2
Overview of the A C T 2
Test-Taking Strategies 3
Prohibited Behavior at the Test Center 5
Content of the A C T Sections 6
Taking the Practice Tests 10
Practice Multiple-Choice Sections 11
Practice Writing Test 52
Practice Answer Document 55
Scoring Your Tests 63
A Message to Students
This document is an important first step as you get ready for college and your 
career. 
The information here is intended to help you do your best on the A C T to gain 
admission to colleges and universities. Included are helpful hints and test-taking 
strategies, as well as a complete practice A C T, with “retired” questions from earlier 
test subjects given on previous test dates at A C T test centers. Also featured are a 
practice writing test, a sample answer document, answer keys, and self-scoring 
instructions.
Read this document carefully and take the practice tests well before test day. That 
way, you will be familiar with the test subjects, what they measure, and strategies 
you can use to do your best on test day.
You may also want to consider Th e O ff icial A C T
®
 Self-Paced Course, Powered by 
Kaplan
®
 to learn test content and strategies in a virtual classroom. To view all of our 
test preparation options, go to www.act.org/the-act/testprep.
Overview of 
the A C T
The A C T test consists of four multiple-choice sections—
English, mathematics, reading, and science—with an 
optional writing section. Some colleges and universities 
require or accept A C T writing scores, so you may consider 
taking the writing section.
Test Questions Minutes per Test
English 75 45
Mathematics 60 60
Reading 40 35
Science 40 35
Writing (optional) 1 essay 40
After the science test you should expect to take a shorter, 
multiple-choice test covering one of the previous subject 
areas. The results of the fifth test help develop future test 
questions and will not be reflected on your scores, so please 
try your best.
© 2023 by A C T, Inc. All rights reserved.  QU00002.CJ11538
3
Test-Taking Strategies
Test Strategies for the A C T
Each multiple-choice section contains questions with either 
four or five answers from which you are to choose the 
correct or best answer.
If you do not complete all your sections and want to test 
again, you will need to re-register and pay for a new test 
date. Once you access test content, you cannot request a 
Test Date Change. 
Strategies to help you prepare for the A C T
 9
Get familiar with the content of the sections.
Review the information in this document. Note which 
content areas make up a large proportion of the sections. 
The topics included in each content area are examples of 
possible topics; they do not include all possibilities.
 9
Update your knowledge and skills in the content 
areas.
Review content areas that you have studied but are not 
fresh in your mind. Refresh your knowledge in the content 
areas that make up large portions of the test.
 9
Study content areas you are not familiar with.
If some content areas of the A C T are unfamiliar to you, 
consider taking coursework in those areas before you take 
the test.
Tips for Taking the Multiple-Choice Sections
 9
Pace yourself.
It is important that you have enough time to read the 
passages/questions and figure out your responses. For 
each section, subtract the number of minutes you estimate 
you will spend skimming the passages or reading the 
information provided, then divide the total number of 
remaining minutes allowed by the number of questions to 
determine the estimated time you should spend on each 
question. If possible, spend less time on each question and 
use the remaining time allowed for a section to review your 
work and return to the questions in that section that were 
most difficult for you. 
The time limits set for each section give nearly everyone 
enough time to finish all questions. However, you will want 
to pace yourself to avoid spending too much time on one 
passage or puzzling over an answer to a specific problem. 
Go on to other questions and come back if there is time.
 9
Read the directions carefully. 
Before you begin each section, read the directions carefully.
 y
The English, reading, and science sections ask for 
the best answer. Read and consider all of the answer 
choices and choose the answer that best responds to 
the question.
 y
The mathematics section asks for the correct answer. 
You may want to work out the answer you feel is 
correct and look for it among the choices given. If 
your answer is not among the choices provided, 
reread the question and consider all the answer 
choices.
 9
Read each question carefully.
You need to understand exactly what each question asks. 
Some questions will require you to go through several 
steps to find the correct or best answer, while others can be 
answered more quickly.
 9
Answer the easy questions first.
A good strategy is to answer the easy questions and skip 
the questions you find difficult. After answering the easy 
questions, go back and answer the more difficult questions 
if you have time.
 9
Use logic on more difficult questions.
When you return to the more difficult questions, try to 
use logic to eliminate incorrect answers. Compare the 
answer choices to each other and note how they differ. 
Such differences may provide clues as to what the question 
requires. Eliminate as many incorrect answers as you can, 
then make an educated guess from the remaining answers.
 9
Answer every question.
Your scores in the sections will be based only on the 
number of questions that you answer correctly; there is no 
penalty for guessing. Try to answer every question within 
the time allowed for each section.
 9
Review your work.
If there is time left after you have answered every question 
in a section, go back and check your work. You will not be 
allowed to go back to any other section or mark responses 
to a section after time has been called in that section.
When testing on an answer document:
 9
Be precise in choosing your responses.
If you are taking the A C T on paper, make sure that you 
properly select the desired answer on your answer 
document. Marks on your answer document that extend 
beyond the intended oval may be scored as incorrect. 
 9
Erase completely.
If you want to change a multiple-choice answer on paper, 
make sure you erase completely. Do not cross out answers 
or use correction fluid or tape; you must erase. Smudges or 
unintended marks may cause errors in scoring.
4
Get Ready
Prepare well in advance for the A C T.
 y
Know what to expect on test day. Review this document 
and visit www.actstudent.org for more information, 
including an overview of each test subject, multiple test 
prep resources, and a comprehensive test day checklist.
 y
Take the practice tests in the order they are shown in 
this booklet, time yourself, and review your responses 
using the answer keys.
 y
Get plenty of rest the night before the tests.
Note: Most procedures in this document refer to testing 
on a National test date at an A C T test center (within the 
United States, US territories, or Puerto Rico). Procedures 
may differ slightly if you take a different administration of 
th e A C T t est .
On Test Day
Report on Time
 y
For National test dates, you must report to your assigned 
test center by the time stated on your admission 
ticket (usually 8:00 a.m.). If you are late, you will not be 
admitted to test. If your ticket does not list a specific test 
room, the test staff or posted signs will direct you.
What to Bring
 y
A printed copy of your admission ticket. Your ticket 
contains important information that helps connect your 
answer document to the registration on file. If you have 
lost your ticket, you can print another through your 
MyACT account. If you do not bring your ticket on test 
day, your scores may be delayed.
 y
Acceptable photo identification. You will not be 
permitted to test if your ID does not meet A C T 
requirements. See A C T requirements for ID on your 
ticket or at www.act.org/the-act/id.
 y
Number 2 pencil. Bring sharpened No. 2 pencils and 
good erasers (no mechanical pencils or ink pens). Do 
not bring any other writing instruments. You will not be 
allowed to use them. 
Note: International test centers are provided approved 
whiteboards and erasable markers.
 y
Watch or other timing device. You may bring a watch to 
pace yourself, but it may not have an alarm. Your watch 
or other timing device must be removed and placed 
on your desk while in the test room, so that it remains 
visible to staff during the test. If your alarm sounds 
during testing, you’ll be dismissed and your answers will 
not be scored.
 y
Calculator. If you wish to use a calculator (use of a 
calculator is not required), it is your responsibility to 
ensure the calculator is permitted according to the 
A C T Calculator Policy. 
 y
Snacks. You may consume snacks and drinks outside the 
test room during the break.
What NOT to Bring
 y
Textbooks, foreign language or other dictionaries, 
scratch paper, notes, or other aids
 y
Highlighter pens, colored pens or pencils, or correction 
fluid/tape
 y
Any electronic device, other than a permitted calculator
 y
Reading material
In the Test Room
 y
Test staff will direct you to a seat. If you need a left-
handed desk, tell the staff as you enter.
 y
Do not leave the test room after you have been 
admitted.
 y
Only pencils, erasers, a permitted calculator, your watch 
(if brought to the test center), and your paper ticket will 
be allowed on your desk.
 y
You will be required to put all other personal belongings 
away.
 y
Reporting time for the test will be 8:00 a.m. Testing will 
begin as soon as all examinees who are present at 8:00 
a.m. are checked in and seated.
 y
Listen carefully to all directions read by the test staff.
 y
It is important that you follow all directions carefully.
 y
You will normally be dismissed at about 12:35 p.m. if you 
take the A C T (no writing), or at about 1:35 p.m. if you take 
the A C T with writing.
For Students Approved to Test at 
National Test Center With One and 
One-Half Time
Testing with one and one-half time is available on the 
multiple-choice and/or writing sections for students with 
diagnosed disabilities and/or limited English proficiency.
If you are approved for one and one-half time at a National 
test center, you will have 50% additional time to complete 
each section.
Th e A C T : 
Test Questions Minutes per Test
English 75 70
Mathematics 60 90
Reading 40 55
Science 40 55
Writing (optional) 1 essay 60
5
After Testing
Voiding Your Test on Test Day
If you have to leave the test center before completing all 
sections, you must decide whether or not you want your 
test scored and then inform the test staff of your decision. If 
you do not, your test will be scored.
If you do not complete all your sections and want to test 
again, you will need to re-register and pay for a new test 
date. Once you access test content, you cannot request a 
Test Date Change.
Testing More Than Once
If you wish to take the test again to increase your scores, 
A C T will calculate and report a superscore for students who 
have taken the A C T test more than once. This gives colleges 
the option to use the student’s best scores from all test 
administrations, rather than scores from just one sitting, in 
their admission and scholarship decisions.
For information about superscoring, see 
www.act.org/the-act/superscore.
For more information about retaking the A C T, see 
www.act.org/the-act/retaking.
Testing More Than Once In the 
Same Administration
You may not receive scores from more than one test taken 
during a scheduled National or International test date. 
For example, you may test on Saturday, on an authorized 
non-Saturday date, or on a rescheduled test date—but not 
on more than one of those days on a particular test date. 
If you are admitted and allowed to test a second time on a 
particular test date, we will report only the scores from the 
first test. The second set of scores will be canceled without 
refund.
Requesting a Copy of Your  
Test Questions and Answers
On certain test dates, you may order (for an additional 
fee) a copy of the multiple-choice test questions used 
to determine your scores, a list of your answers, and the 
answer key. If you took the writing section, you will also 
receive a copy of the writing prompt, scoring guidelines, 
and the scores assigned to your essay. 
This service is not available for all test dates and is available 
only for National testing or Special testing in the United 
States, US Territories, and Puerto Rico. Restrictions apply.
If you are interested in this service, check 
www.act.org/the-act/tir for more detail.
Prohibited Behavior at the Test Center
A complete list of the prohibited behaviors was provided 
during the registration process. The following behaviors can 
also result in dismissal. Please be reminded of the following:
 y
You may not fill in or alter responses to any multiple-
choice questions or continue to write or alter the essay 
after time has been called. This includes fixing stray 
marks.
 y
You may not look at any section of the test outside of the 
designated time for that test.
 y
You may not access an electronic device (other than 
your testing computer and mouse, when testing online) 
at any time during testing or during breaks. All other 
devices must be powered off and placed out of sight 
from the time you are admitted to the test room until 
you are dismissed.
 y
You may not give or receive assistance by any means. 
This includes looking at another person’s test.
 y
The test is confidential and remains so even after the 
exam is complete. You may not remove any materials 
from the test room. You may not discuss or share test 
questions, answers, or test form identification numbers 
during test administration, during breaks, or after the 
test.
 y
You may not disclose test questions or answers in any 
way or at any time, including through social media, in 
whole or in part.
 y
You may not eat, drink, or use reading materials in the 
test room.
If you are observed or suspected of engaging in prohibited 
behavior, you will be dismissed and your test will not be 
scored.
Page 5


2
Contents
A Message to Students 2
Overview of the A C T 2
Test-Taking Strategies 3
Prohibited Behavior at the Test Center 5
Content of the A C T Sections 6
Taking the Practice Tests 10
Practice Multiple-Choice Sections 11
Practice Writing Test 52
Practice Answer Document 55
Scoring Your Tests 63
A Message to Students
This document is an important first step as you get ready for college and your 
career. 
The information here is intended to help you do your best on the A C T to gain 
admission to colleges and universities. Included are helpful hints and test-taking 
strategies, as well as a complete practice A C T, with “retired” questions from earlier 
test subjects given on previous test dates at A C T test centers. Also featured are a 
practice writing test, a sample answer document, answer keys, and self-scoring 
instructions.
Read this document carefully and take the practice tests well before test day. That 
way, you will be familiar with the test subjects, what they measure, and strategies 
you can use to do your best on test day.
You may also want to consider Th e O ff icial A C T
®
 Self-Paced Course, Powered by 
Kaplan
®
 to learn test content and strategies in a virtual classroom. To view all of our 
test preparation options, go to www.act.org/the-act/testprep.
Overview of 
the A C T
The A C T test consists of four multiple-choice sections—
English, mathematics, reading, and science—with an 
optional writing section. Some colleges and universities 
require or accept A C T writing scores, so you may consider 
taking the writing section.
Test Questions Minutes per Test
English 75 45
Mathematics 60 60
Reading 40 35
Science 40 35
Writing (optional) 1 essay 40
After the science test you should expect to take a shorter, 
multiple-choice test covering one of the previous subject 
areas. The results of the fifth test help develop future test 
questions and will not be reflected on your scores, so please 
try your best.
© 2023 by A C T, Inc. All rights reserved.  QU00002.CJ11538
3
Test-Taking Strategies
Test Strategies for the A C T
Each multiple-choice section contains questions with either 
four or five answers from which you are to choose the 
correct or best answer.
If you do not complete all your sections and want to test 
again, you will need to re-register and pay for a new test 
date. Once you access test content, you cannot request a 
Test Date Change. 
Strategies to help you prepare for the A C T
 9
Get familiar with the content of the sections.
Review the information in this document. Note which 
content areas make up a large proportion of the sections. 
The topics included in each content area are examples of 
possible topics; they do not include all possibilities.
 9
Update your knowledge and skills in the content 
areas.
Review content areas that you have studied but are not 
fresh in your mind. Refresh your knowledge in the content 
areas that make up large portions of the test.
 9
Study content areas you are not familiar with.
If some content areas of the A C T are unfamiliar to you, 
consider taking coursework in those areas before you take 
the test.
Tips for Taking the Multiple-Choice Sections
 9
Pace yourself.
It is important that you have enough time to read the 
passages/questions and figure out your responses. For 
each section, subtract the number of minutes you estimate 
you will spend skimming the passages or reading the 
information provided, then divide the total number of 
remaining minutes allowed by the number of questions to 
determine the estimated time you should spend on each 
question. If possible, spend less time on each question and 
use the remaining time allowed for a section to review your 
work and return to the questions in that section that were 
most difficult for you. 
The time limits set for each section give nearly everyone 
enough time to finish all questions. However, you will want 
to pace yourself to avoid spending too much time on one 
passage or puzzling over an answer to a specific problem. 
Go on to other questions and come back if there is time.
 9
Read the directions carefully. 
Before you begin each section, read the directions carefully.
 y
The English, reading, and science sections ask for 
the best answer. Read and consider all of the answer 
choices and choose the answer that best responds to 
the question.
 y
The mathematics section asks for the correct answer. 
You may want to work out the answer you feel is 
correct and look for it among the choices given. If 
your answer is not among the choices provided, 
reread the question and consider all the answer 
choices.
 9
Read each question carefully.
You need to understand exactly what each question asks. 
Some questions will require you to go through several 
steps to find the correct or best answer, while others can be 
answered more quickly.
 9
Answer the easy questions first.
A good strategy is to answer the easy questions and skip 
the questions you find difficult. After answering the easy 
questions, go back and answer the more difficult questions 
if you have time.
 9
Use logic on more difficult questions.
When you return to the more difficult questions, try to 
use logic to eliminate incorrect answers. Compare the 
answer choices to each other and note how they differ. 
Such differences may provide clues as to what the question 
requires. Eliminate as many incorrect answers as you can, 
then make an educated guess from the remaining answers.
 9
Answer every question.
Your scores in the sections will be based only on the 
number of questions that you answer correctly; there is no 
penalty for guessing. Try to answer every question within 
the time allowed for each section.
 9
Review your work.
If there is time left after you have answered every question 
in a section, go back and check your work. You will not be 
allowed to go back to any other section or mark responses 
to a section after time has been called in that section.
When testing on an answer document:
 9
Be precise in choosing your responses.
If you are taking the A C T on paper, make sure that you 
properly select the desired answer on your answer 
document. Marks on your answer document that extend 
beyond the intended oval may be scored as incorrect. 
 9
Erase completely.
If you want to change a multiple-choice answer on paper, 
make sure you erase completely. Do not cross out answers 
or use correction fluid or tape; you must erase. Smudges or 
unintended marks may cause errors in scoring.
4
Get Ready
Prepare well in advance for the A C T.
 y
Know what to expect on test day. Review this document 
and visit www.actstudent.org for more information, 
including an overview of each test subject, multiple test 
prep resources, and a comprehensive test day checklist.
 y
Take the practice tests in the order they are shown in 
this booklet, time yourself, and review your responses 
using the answer keys.
 y
Get plenty of rest the night before the tests.
Note: Most procedures in this document refer to testing 
on a National test date at an A C T test center (within the 
United States, US territories, or Puerto Rico). Procedures 
may differ slightly if you take a different administration of 
th e A C T t est .
On Test Day
Report on Time
 y
For National test dates, you must report to your assigned 
test center by the time stated on your admission 
ticket (usually 8:00 a.m.). If you are late, you will not be 
admitted to test. If your ticket does not list a specific test 
room, the test staff or posted signs will direct you.
What to Bring
 y
A printed copy of your admission ticket. Your ticket 
contains important information that helps connect your 
answer document to the registration on file. If you have 
lost your ticket, you can print another through your 
MyACT account. If you do not bring your ticket on test 
day, your scores may be delayed.
 y
Acceptable photo identification. You will not be 
permitted to test if your ID does not meet A C T 
requirements. See A C T requirements for ID on your 
ticket or at www.act.org/the-act/id.
 y
Number 2 pencil. Bring sharpened No. 2 pencils and 
good erasers (no mechanical pencils or ink pens). Do 
not bring any other writing instruments. You will not be 
allowed to use them. 
Note: International test centers are provided approved 
whiteboards and erasable markers.
 y
Watch or other timing device. You may bring a watch to 
pace yourself, but it may not have an alarm. Your watch 
or other timing device must be removed and placed 
on your desk while in the test room, so that it remains 
visible to staff during the test. If your alarm sounds 
during testing, you’ll be dismissed and your answers will 
not be scored.
 y
Calculator. If you wish to use a calculator (use of a 
calculator is not required), it is your responsibility to 
ensure the calculator is permitted according to the 
A C T Calculator Policy. 
 y
Snacks. You may consume snacks and drinks outside the 
test room during the break.
What NOT to Bring
 y
Textbooks, foreign language or other dictionaries, 
scratch paper, notes, or other aids
 y
Highlighter pens, colored pens or pencils, or correction 
fluid/tape
 y
Any electronic device, other than a permitted calculator
 y
Reading material
In the Test Room
 y
Test staff will direct you to a seat. If you need a left-
handed desk, tell the staff as you enter.
 y
Do not leave the test room after you have been 
admitted.
 y
Only pencils, erasers, a permitted calculator, your watch 
(if brought to the test center), and your paper ticket will 
be allowed on your desk.
 y
You will be required to put all other personal belongings 
away.
 y
Reporting time for the test will be 8:00 a.m. Testing will 
begin as soon as all examinees who are present at 8:00 
a.m. are checked in and seated.
 y
Listen carefully to all directions read by the test staff.
 y
It is important that you follow all directions carefully.
 y
You will normally be dismissed at about 12:35 p.m. if you 
take the A C T (no writing), or at about 1:35 p.m. if you take 
the A C T with writing.
For Students Approved to Test at 
National Test Center With One and 
One-Half Time
Testing with one and one-half time is available on the 
multiple-choice and/or writing sections for students with 
diagnosed disabilities and/or limited English proficiency.
If you are approved for one and one-half time at a National 
test center, you will have 50% additional time to complete 
each section.
Th e A C T : 
Test Questions Minutes per Test
English 75 70
Mathematics 60 90
Reading 40 55
Science 40 55
Writing (optional) 1 essay 60
5
After Testing
Voiding Your Test on Test Day
If you have to leave the test center before completing all 
sections, you must decide whether or not you want your 
test scored and then inform the test staff of your decision. If 
you do not, your test will be scored.
If you do not complete all your sections and want to test 
again, you will need to re-register and pay for a new test 
date. Once you access test content, you cannot request a 
Test Date Change.
Testing More Than Once
If you wish to take the test again to increase your scores, 
A C T will calculate and report a superscore for students who 
have taken the A C T test more than once. This gives colleges 
the option to use the student’s best scores from all test 
administrations, rather than scores from just one sitting, in 
their admission and scholarship decisions.
For information about superscoring, see 
www.act.org/the-act/superscore.
For more information about retaking the A C T, see 
www.act.org/the-act/retaking.
Testing More Than Once In the 
Same Administration
You may not receive scores from more than one test taken 
during a scheduled National or International test date. 
For example, you may test on Saturday, on an authorized 
non-Saturday date, or on a rescheduled test date—but not 
on more than one of those days on a particular test date. 
If you are admitted and allowed to test a second time on a 
particular test date, we will report only the scores from the 
first test. The second set of scores will be canceled without 
refund.
Requesting a Copy of Your  
Test Questions and Answers
On certain test dates, you may order (for an additional 
fee) a copy of the multiple-choice test questions used 
to determine your scores, a list of your answers, and the 
answer key. If you took the writing section, you will also 
receive a copy of the writing prompt, scoring guidelines, 
and the scores assigned to your essay. 
This service is not available for all test dates and is available 
only for National testing or Special testing in the United 
States, US Territories, and Puerto Rico. Restrictions apply.
If you are interested in this service, check 
www.act.org/the-act/tir for more detail.
Prohibited Behavior at the Test Center
A complete list of the prohibited behaviors was provided 
during the registration process. The following behaviors can 
also result in dismissal. Please be reminded of the following:
 y
You may not fill in or alter responses to any multiple-
choice questions or continue to write or alter the essay 
after time has been called. This includes fixing stray 
marks.
 y
You may not look at any section of the test outside of the 
designated time for that test.
 y
You may not access an electronic device (other than 
your testing computer and mouse, when testing online) 
at any time during testing or during breaks. All other 
devices must be powered off and placed out of sight 
from the time you are admitted to the test room until 
you are dismissed.
 y
You may not give or receive assistance by any means. 
This includes looking at another person’s test.
 y
The test is confidential and remains so even after the 
exam is complete. You may not remove any materials 
from the test room. You may not discuss or share test 
questions, answers, or test form identification numbers 
during test administration, during breaks, or after the 
test.
 y
You may not disclose test questions or answers in any 
way or at any time, including through social media, in 
whole or in part.
 y
You may not eat, drink, or use reading materials in the 
test room.
If you are observed or suspected of engaging in prohibited 
behavior, you will be dismissed and your test will not be 
scored.
6
Content of the A C T Sections
English Section
The English section consists of several essays, or passages, 
each followed by a set of multiple-choice questions.
 y
Some questions refer to the passage as a whole, or to 
underlined or highlighted portions of the passage and 
offer several alternatives to that portion. You decide 
which answer choice is most appropriate in the context 
of the passage.
 y
Many questions offer “NO CHANGE” to the passage as 
one of the choices. 
The English section puts you in the position of a writer who 
makes decisions to revise and edit a text. Essays in different 
genres provide a variety of rhetorical situations. These 
passages are chosen for their appropriateness in assessing 
writing and language skills and to reflect students’ interests 
and experiences. 
Four scores are reported for the English section: a score 
for the section overall and three reporting category scores 
based on specific knowledge and skills. The approximate 
percentage of the section devoted to each reporting 
category is:
Production of Writing (29–32%)
This category requires you to apply your understanding of 
the purpose and focus of a piece of writing.
• 
Topic Development: Demonstrate an understanding of, 
and control over, the rhetorical aspects of texts. Identify 
the purposes of parts of texts, determine whether a text 
or part of a text has met its intended goal, and evaluate 
the relevance of material in terms of a text’s focus.
• 
Organization, Unity, and Cohesion: Use various strategies 
to ensure that a text is logically organized, flows smoothly, 
and has an effective introduction and conclusion.
Knowledge of Language (15–17%)
These questions require you to demonstrate effective 
language use through ensuring precise and concise word 
choice and maintaining consistency in style and tone.
Conventions of Standard English (52–55%)
These questions require you to apply an understanding of 
the conventions of standard English grammar, usage, and 
mechanics to revise and edit text.
• 
Sentence Structure and Formation: Apply 
understanding of sentence structure and formation in a 
text and make revisions to improve the writing.
• 
Punctuation: Recognize common problems with 
standard English punctuation and make revisions to 
improve the writing.
• 
Usage: Recognize common problems with standard 
English usage in a text and make revisions to improve 
the writing.
Tips for Taking the English Section
 9
Be aware of the writing style used in each 
passage.
The passages cover a variety of topics and are written in a 
variety of styles. It is important that you take into account 
the writing style used in each passage. When responding 
to a question, be sure to understand the context of 
the question. Consider how the sentence containing 
an underlined or highlighted portion fits in with the 
surrounding sentences and into the passage as a whole.
 9
Examine the underlined or highlighted portions 
of the passage.
Before responding to a question with an underlined or 
highlighted portion, carefully examine what is underlined 
or highlighted in the text. Consider the elements of writing 
included in each underlined or highlighted portion.
 y
Some questions will ask you to base your decision on 
some specific element of writing, such as the tone or 
emphasis the text should convey.
 y
Some questions will ask you to choose the alternative 
to the underlined or highlighted portion that is NOT or 
LEAST acceptable.
The answer choices for each question will contain changes 
in one or more of those elements of writing.
 9
Be aware of questions with no underlined 
portions. 
You will be asked some questions about a section of the 
passage or about the passage as a whole, in light of a 
given rhetorical situation. Questions of this type are often 
identified by a question number in a box located at the 
appropriate point in the passage or by a highlighted 
asterisk in brackets. 
Questions about the entire passage are placed at the end 
of the passage. For paper testing, these questions are 
introduced by a horizontal box enclosing the following 
instruction: “Questions __ and __ ask about the preceding 
passage as a whole.” For online testing, similar instructions 
will appear above the individual questions.
 9
Note the differences in the answer choices.
Many of the questions in the section will involve more than 
one aspect of writing. Examine each answer choice and 
how it differs from the others. Be careful not to choose an 
answer that corrects one error but causes a different error.
 9
Determine the best answer.
When a question asks you to choose the best alternative 
to an underlined or highlighted portion, consider the 
following approach:
 y
Decide how the underlined or highlighted portion might 
best be phrased in standard written English or in terms 
of the particular question posed.
 ~
If the underlined or highlighted portion is the best 
answer, select “NO CHANGE.”