The ACT (American College Test) is a standardized, timed test that tests what high school juniors and seniors know. You have to apply with your school counselor to take the test; you also have to pay a small fee at the time you apply. If you are unable to take the test on one date because of another activity, you can still apply for one of several other testing dates throughout the school year.
You will be tested in several academic areas, including English, reading, math and science. Test scores earned can range from a one to a 36. The higher test scores mean you have a better chance of getting into the college of your choice, so studying and preparing before the exam is vital. The ACT is timed, with 215 test questions. As you think about taking the ACT, understand you should not spend too much time on one question. If you are not sure of an answer, you should move on to another question, then if you have time, go back to those you did not answer. After the tests are scored, the results are sent to the colleges you have chosen.
Try to isolate what causes you stress. If you tighten up mentally at the thought of taking a timed test, you can use the practice tests and a timer to practice your time management and learn how to think more quickly. If you have difficulty focusing on the study materials, you need to talk yourself through your mental block and consciously try to relax and clear your mind. If nothing else works, consider a short course of counseling to learn relaxation techniques that will help you relax during study and testing times. Consider rewarding yourself when you finish studying and doing well with a practice test. Perhaps you can watch a favorite program or visit one of your favorite restaurants for a treat.
Each study guide has recommendations such as the "flyover" on the reading portion of the test. Several options will be presented to you, such as the flyover, which will be described in some detail. Other strategies, such as "kitchen logic" and "getting into the author's mind," are covered. Each technique or strategy will give you ideas of how to treat the material and answer the questions about the materials you have studied. This study guide appears to be very comprehensive. The math portion contains problems as well as explanations for the solutions.