How to Study for the ACT

Studying for any standardized test can be a painful process. But if you start early, you'll save yourself a lot of stress and improve your chances of success.

Things You'll Need

• ACT Study Guides
• Academic Counselings
• College Catalogs
• College Guides
• Stress Relief Products
• ACT Prep Classes

Instructions

1. Peruse your local bookstore or your favorite online bookseller for ACT (American College Testing) preparation books. Choose one that not only has detailed information about the subject matter of the test, but also has practice tests.

2. Start studying early so that you know where you're strong and where you need to brush up. This will also increase your confidence and save you from stressing about the test.

3. Work through the book, little by little every day. Make studying for the ACT a part of your daily routine.

4. Take as many practice tests as time and patience will allow. Simulate exam conditions as best you can; for instance, make sure you have a 3-hour chunk of time when no one will bother you.

5. Talk to people who've taken the test. Battle-tested veterans often have the best advice.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're the pack-rat type, dig up your old notes from science, math and English classes and add them to your study materials.

• Try to find practice tests that have actually been given before, rather than made-up practice tests. The more realistic, the better.

• Consider using the ACT's own test-preparation software (see Related Sites).

• Don't study the night before the exam. Instead, let yourself relax as much as possible and get to bed early.