Okay, let me tell you about how I did on this last ACT from a month ago. My composite score was an 18, had a 17 in English, 19 in math, 16 in reading, and a 21 on science. The worst part about it all is that I felt I did better and got like at least a composite of somewhere around 21-23. I’d like to know what magic it takes to get those really high scores of 30+.
The preparation/magic is the maximizing one’s learning in the 10 or 11 years of school leading up to the ACT. Did you take any practice tests to get a feel for the test and how to pace yourself? Even without preparation, that would have been important as would doing a little reading on strategies best utilized on the ACT. Sometimes the strategy you need to know is as basic as knowing to answer the questions that come easily first and then go back and work on the harder ones.
Do you have test anxiety or some type of learning disability with regards to standardized tests? Have you experience with other standardized tests? Have you been tested for any disabilities?
Getting 30+ does not come from nowhere. People who score that high have had rigorous training such as Honors classes, AP’s, and proficient understanding of English and Math. Also, I noticed that studying for the supposedly harder SAT helps with the ACT score. I took the test in September as well and if you use the REAL ACT book, you ll get a better grasp of how to improve your score. Best of luck.