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ACT Info

Overview

The ACT is a standardized college entrance examination that measures knowledge and skills in English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning and the application of these skills to future academic tasks.

Subject	Test Type	Description
English	Multiple-choice	Consists of five passages of nonfiction prose. Each passage contains 15 questions on: The selection that best rephrases an underlined portion of the passage. The overall organization of the passage.
Mathematics	Multiple-choice	Tests your knowledge on the basic facts and skills taught in most high school math programs. Utilizes various problem types, including: Word problems Reading and interpreting graphs and charts Geometry Trigonometry Straightforward arithmetic and algebra
Reading	Multiple-choice	Includes one fictional narrative and three nonfiction discussions of topics from: The natural sciences Social science The humanities Questions after each passage test how well you understand the subject.
Science	Multiple-choice	Includes seven sets of science information presented in the form of: Graphs, tables, charts, or diagrams Descriptions of experimental studies and their results Presentations of differing theories or hypotheses about a particular scientific question. Several questions after each passage test your understanding and interpretation of the information.
Writing	Essay	Consists of one essay question that defines an issue and presents two points of view. You must declare your position and support your opinion with reasons and details. Your grade depends on your: Ability to express a position Maintain focus Develop your position and support your ideas Organize your ideas logically Use language clearly and effectively

Important Dates and Test Locations

For current test dates and locations, check with your guidance counselor or visit http://www.actstudent.org/.

Test Structure

Sections	Question Type	Number of Questions	Time Allotted
English		75 multiple choice	45 minutes
	Usage & Mechanics	40
	Rhetorical Skills	35
Mathematics		60 multiple choice	60 minutes
	Arithmetic	14
	Elementary Algebra	10
	Intermediate Algebra	9
	Coordinate Geometry	9
	Plane Geometry	14
	Trigonometry	4
Reading		40 multiple choice	35 minutes
	Prose Fiction	10
	Humanities	10
	Social Studies	10
	Natural Sciences	10
Science		40 multiple choice
	Data Representation	15
	Research Summary	18
	Conflicting Viewpoint	7
Writing (optional)		1 Essay	30 minutes