ACT Reading Test Strategies

You can write on the test in pencil—do it!!!!

NOW--Write down each test tip.

LATER--Which test tips seem most valuable to you?

#1—Answer every

question!!!

• No penalty for guessing• Be strategic—choose the same position every

time you guess—pick an answer and stick with it--choose the A’s and F’s (first postion) or choose the second position (B’s and G’s)

#2--Use POEPOE=Process Of Elimination

• Most questions have TWO answers that seem right—but often there will be two answers that you know are immediately wrong—cross those two off on the test—eliminate!

• 50% chance is a lot better than a 25% chance!

#3--TIME is crucial

• Become familiar with the test and know the directions!

• Pace yourself—30 seconds per question

• Bring a watch—no cell phones allowed.

#4--WORDS to WATCH out for like EXTREMES

• EXTREMES!• Words that seem

extreme or “over the top”—like hateful or ecstatic in an answer often make it incorrect

#5--WORDS to WATCH out for like ABSOLUTES

• Words like always, never, everyone, and all are “absolutes”.

• Answers using absolutes are usually wrong

#6—Choose the BEST answer

• Many questions have TWO answers that appear to be right—however, one is BEST!

GoodJob

Best Job

#7--WRITE on you test booklet!

• WRITE as you read—underline topic sentences or important ideas, circle signal words, mark unfamiliar words, make brief notes if something strikes you

• When using POE, cross off the answers that you KNOW are wrong.

#8—Answer the easy questions first.

• Main idea questions should be easy since that’s a common purpose for reading in school

• Detail questions=guess at your own answer before looking at your choices; if you agree with one, go for it; if none seem right, go back to the passage & find the answer

• If a question looks like it will take a lot of time, mark it and come back to it later

#9—Take care with

your answer sheet!

• Have a good eraser and use it!

• Cross check to make certain you are on the right number.

Relax!

You are ready!

Victory is on your side!