Login Get started

Contact an Academic Director
1-877-545-7737

The ACT Test Format, Timing & Questions

The ACT Test Format, Timing & Questions

The ACT Test Format, Timing & Questions 150 150 Emma Taylor

Original Page: https://www.studypoint.com/ed/the-act-test/

How is the ACT Test Formatted?

The ACT is accepted as a college entrance exam by all four-year colleges in the United States.  Here is the basic information about the test.

What is the ACT?

The ACT tests a student’s abilities in four basic areas that include: Math, English, Reading and Science.  Students may opt to take the additional Writing section.  Generally students in their junior and senior year of high school will take the ACT and in turn submit their scores to the colleges of their choice.  This is a part of the standard process for applying to college.

How is the test set up?

The ACT has four basic sections with multiple choice questions.  Those basic sections are Math, English, Reading and Science.  The Writing section is an optional essay.

How much time does it take?

The four basic sections are allowed a total testing time of two hours and fifty-five minutes.  An additional half hour is added for the optional Writing section.

Here’s how that looks when it’s all broken down:

Math

  • The Math section covers 60 questions and allots a total of 60 minutes
  • Areas covered include: pre-algebra, elementary algebra, intermediate algebra, coordinate geometry, plain geometry, and trigonometry
  • Questions are multiple choice with five possible answers

English

  • The English section covers 75 questions and allots a total of 45 minutes
  • Areas covered include:  grammar and usage, punctuation, sentence structure, strategy, organization and style
  • Questions are multiple choice with four possible answers

Reading

  • The Reading section covers 40 questions in 35 minutes
  • Areas covered include:  reading comprehension
  • Questions are multiple choice with four possible answers

Science

  • The Science section covers 40 questions in 35 minutes
  • Areas covered include:  analysis, evaluation, interpretation, reasoning and problem solving
  • Questions are multiple choice with four possible answers.  Questions cover data representation and research and include questions with conflicting viewpoints

Writing

  • The Writing section includes one thirty minute essay to assess writing skills.  Students are given an essay prompt

Find more information about the taking the ACT.

Our SAT tutoring and ACT tutoring courses help students to earn higher test scores. One-on-one tutoring in your home and is available 7-days a week so ACT prep can be done when it’s convenient for your student. Every tutor from SchoolTutoring Academy is certified and college-trained with extensive teaching experience. Whether you’re looking for a science tutor or any other type of tutoring, SchoolTutoring can help. To learn about tutoring programs in your area, feel free to contact us for more information.