Preparing to Tackle Your ACT Test?

Answer 1

If you're about to take the ACT test, you're probably feeling a little bit overwhelmed by the prospect. After all, it can determine whether or not you get into your college of choice. When faced with the intimidating ACT, many prospective students opt to spend obscene amounts of money on books and tutors, hoping to learn some great secret to acing the test.

Unfortunately, there really are no secrets to scoring high on your ACT. Everyone seems to have their own ideas for how to prepare. However, there are many excellent pieces of advice that can help things go as smoothly as possible.

Signing Up

Before you even begin studying for your ACT test, you will first need to register to take it. To do this, you can visit the ACT's website and register either online or by snail mail. This will cost you between $31 and $46, depending on whether you wish to take the writing portion of the exam. Once registered, you will be scheduled to take your test at the testing center closest to your home. There are also special accommodations available for people who meet certain criteria.

Come Prepared

When you go to take your ACT test, there are some things you should bring with you: Your valid photo ID, a pair of number two pencils, an eraser, a reliable pencil sharpener, a graphing calculator and last but not least, your ACT admission ticket that you should have printed out or received in the mail.

Preparing the Mind

Your ability to do the test well only goes as far as your brain's quality of cognitive function. That's why it is important to get plenty of rest the night before and to eat an energizing and nourishing breakfast in the morning.

It's also a good idea to do some quick and vigorous exercise right before the test. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and therefore oxygen delivery, as well, resulting in enhanced performance. Furthermore, it has a calming effect that will enable you to keep a clear head and focus.

Read Carefully

It's important to read each question carefully in order to fully understand what you need to do to answer it. If you rush over problems, you're likely to make costly mistakes. Also, if you become frustrated with a question, skip to the next one and go back to it later rather than stewing over it.