Preparing for the ACT can be challenging, especially when it comes to the Reading section. At
AllPencilsDown, we understand the difficulties you may face and are here to provide valuable
tips to enhance your performance. In this blog, we will explore seven effective strategies to not
only improve your ACT Reading score but also boost your reading speed. By implementing
these tips, you'll develop the skills and confidence necessary to excel on test day.
Passively scanning passages won't help you fully comprehend and retain the information. Instead, actively engage with the text. Underline or highlight key points, jot down notes in the margins, and mark any unfamiliar vocabulary. By actively interacting with the passage, you'll enhance your understanding and make it easier to answer related questions.
Time management is crucial on the ACT Reading section. Skimming the passage allows you to quickly grasp the main idea, tone, and structure. Start by reading the first and last sentences of each paragraph, focusing on topic sentences and concluding statements. Pay attention to headings, subheadings, and emphasized text. Skimming efficiently will help you locate specific information during question answering and save valuable time.
Before diving into answering the questions, take a moment to carefully analyze them. Understand what each question is asking and identify keywords or phrases that can guide you back to the relevant section of the passage. This approach ensures that you remain focused and don't waste time rereading unnecessary portions.
Creating a brief passage map can aid in comprehension and serve as a reference while answering questions. Summarize each paragraph or section with a few keywords or phrases. This visual representation of the passage structure will help you navigate back to specific details when needed.
Becoming familiar with the different question types typically found in the ACT Reading section, such as main idea, inference, vocabulary in context, and author's purpose, is essential. Understanding the different question formats allows you to tailor your approach accordingly and saves time by eliminating incorrect answer choices more efficiently.
The ACT Reading section presents a tight time constraint. Practice managing your time effectively by simulating test-like conditions during your preparation. Set a timer for each passage and force yourself to move on once the time is up. This way, you'll be accustomed to pacing yourself and avoiding spending too much time on any single question.
