The Real ACT Prep Guide is most popular among message boards. This prep book offers three full-length practice tests, practice questions with in-depth explanations, and strategy suggestions for each section of the ACT. his guide also reviews important concepts in each tested area and offers suggestions for the optional writing section of the ACT. Beyond test prep, the Real Guide also explains the registration process and details how the test is scored and used by colleges.
Test prep message boards rank Kaplan's product somewhere in the middle for quality - some agree they are the best, while others stated the practice tests were easier than the real test. Kaplan offers a full book with six full-length practice tests which include in-depth explanations of answers, tips for doing well on each area of the test, and a CD with teaching videos for each section of the test. Purchase of the book also gives access to the online chat system where students can interact with other students or ask tutors for further explanations of problem questions.
The general consensus of the Barron's products on message boards is that the questions are more difficult than the actual test - the idea that Barron's is helping you to over study. Barron's offers a test prep book, but also offers a six month subscription to the online program for an additional cost. The book offers three full-length practice tests with detailed explanations of questions, detailed review of each section's concepts, and test taking tips. The online study program also offers live updates of how you are performing on the practice tests and explanations as you go through questions.
The Cracking the ACT books rank among the top on message boards alongside the Real ACT Prep Guide. The Princeton Review book offers three full-length practice tests with detailed explanations, practice questions in each academic sections along with answers and a review of the concepts, detailed math strategies, and online tutorials for extra practice. The book also offers details on how to write essays for those opting to complete the writing section.