Strategies for ACT Test Prep

A Comprehensive Guide to a High Score

The ACT test score is used by top colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. This multiple-choice test measures a high school student's academic readiness for college. The test provides colleges with a national benchmark that can be used to compare all student applicants. In addition, a competitive ACT score gives the student more options in the college application process, such as earning scholarship awards and tuition fellowships. The new ACT format comprises 3 mandatory sections (English, Math, Reading) and 2 optional sections (Science and Writing). The total test time for the mandatory sections is approximately 2 hours. The Science section gives students an advantage when applying for STEM majors while other majors may require an essay writing score.

This course aims to improve the English, math, reading, and science skills of students taking the new ACT. Using 420 illustrative slides, it gives a clear breakdown on the questions you will expect to see in the test, and you will learn strategies to work confidently. Many students, including students with good GPAs, run out of time when doing the actual test. To do well in the ACT, you need to spot the different types of questions and pick the right strategy that keeps to the time limit. Ultimately, the test is just a fun challenge that separates students who learn by memorization versus students who not only mastered the basics but are ready to adapt concepts. This course keeps within the scope of the test and is packed with invaluable reading and writing insights, and powerful math shortcuts. Additionally, the course explains key concepts clearly so that the student understands the foundational principles and can get up to speed quickly.

The instructor has taught ACT test prep classes extensively to thousands of high school students in southern California, and has helped test-takers from diverse academic backgrounds. The material in this course is guided by that experience and has been class tested. The instructor has participated in the International Mathematical Olympiad when he was a high-school student. He has also authored several study guides, and enjoys analyzing test questions and developing new ways to outsmart the test folks.