<p>Hi, I'm getting extended time for the December, but can't get it for October. I'm taking both. My scores keep getting worse as a result of the time issue, but I really need to make this next one count. Any tips for better time management on the test? I seem to do fine with the practice tests, but when I am actually taking the test, it is soooo hard for me to time manage. Any help? I want to make the most of this next test- maybe I won't have to take the December one. </p>
<p>Wear a watch if they allow it.</p>
<p>If you haven’t taken it before, read up on how it is exactly offered.</p>
<p>The number one problem is to not get hung up on individual questions for more than a few seconds. It is better to skip a problem and go back to it than spend more a minute or two on a single problem.</p>
<p>(it would be FOOLISH to not take the December test if you have accommodations for it and not for the October test)</p>
<p>@rhandco I have just (in the past) sacrificed speed for accuracy, and I cannot find a good balance. </p>
<p>That is a good point. Two chances are better than one, no?</p>
<p>Yes definitely take both. Are you a junior?</p>
<p>Unfortunately, I am a senior. December would be my absolute last chance to take the test (well, not for my absolute last resort safety school, but it’s last resort). So two chances is better than one, I guess.</p>
<p>I’ve taken the ACT twice with extended time and large print. When they give you extended time, you time yourself. I’ve been alone in the classroom with my proctor both times, and I take my breaks whenever I want, but the clock is never stopped. For me, I have no trouble with English or Reading, so I finished those in the normal amount of time and was able to put the rest of my time and energy towards math and science. Don’t spend more than a few seconds on one question; you can always come back. Wear a silent watch if you can, so you can keep track of how much time you have left. I can’t see very well, so I was able to just ask my proctor.</p>
<p>The extra time makes all the difference in the world. Good luck!</p>
<p>@Kfiddle Thanks for the information! I am sort of the same way- I fly through the English, but need extra time on math and science (and sort of for reading but I am getting better with practice). If I may ask, did you take it without extended time, and when you took it with extended time, did you get a significant score increase? Did you feel it gave you the time needed to reach your potential?</p>
<p>I didn’t take the ACT without extended time, but the first time I took it, I rushed through it and didn’t use the time, because I was embarrassed and because I had a surprise party to get to in another state. I still did well; the first time I got a composite of 32, with a math of 27. The second time I took it, I got a 35, with a math of 31. I’d say my score increased significantly; my English went up two points, and my science went up three. </p>
<p>I did take the PSAT my freshman year without extended time and without large print. I got a 143. When I took it my junior year, I got a 214. I think the large print made most of the difference, but the extra time is super, especially with math. </p>
<p>I definitely think it gave me the security I needed to do well on the test. When I get too stressed, my vision gets much worse. I knew I had as much time as I needed for the ACT, so I took breaks and relaxed a little. It made all the difference :)</p>
<p>@Kfiddle Wow those are great scores! See, I got a composite of 27 the first time (no ext. time). The second time, I wasn’t able to finish and got a 25. I was so mad at myself! I really really want a composite of 30. With all the practice I’ve been doing, I think it’s a realistic goal! My main problem is math. Not sure if I don’t know the concepts or I take longer than usual. Probably both. Either way I made flash cards with concepts I don’t know. </p>
<p>.</p>
<p>I wish i got extra time. Timing is the hardest part about the test! How hard is the process of getting extra time?</p>
<p>@austin23 to tell you the truth, I don’t know how hard the process is. My parents and support teachers have been doing it all for me. From what I’ve gathered, it seems to be easier to get SAT accommodations than ACT. </p>
<p>For me, ACT accommodations were way easier to get and keep. College Board is the worst about it. </p>
<p>Accommodations like extra time are given to people with diagnosed disabilities. Other accommodations include large print, braille, typing, having a reader, etc. If you don’t have a legitimate disability and a hella good counselor/advocate, you probably won’t be given the extra time :)</p>
<p>Good luck on your tests!!!</p>
<p>@Kfiddle I have two diagnosed disabilities, one with sight and one with learning. I have two good advocates, at least I’d like to think. We shall see, I guess. </p>
<p>The large print is actually the best thing in the world. See my PSAT scores doubling up above ^</p>