How to improve my ACT reading score?

Test Preparation
1

<p>I have been doing endless amounts of ACT prep lately in order to try and bring my scores up for the April test (next Saturday). I've done probably ten different practice tests, and the one that is always about 5 to 8 points lower than everything else is my reading score. Today, in particular, I did a practice test (a previously administered test, by the way, from The Real ACT Prep Guide), and my scores broke down to this:</p>

<p>English: 33
Math: 35
Science: 33
Reading: 25</p>

<p>My other three tests could easily be higher just by being more careful and avoiding careless mistakes. But my reading score is pretty accurate right now. No matter how much practice I do, I still can't deal with the small amount of time. I've tried speed reading, but I always end up having to re-read parts of the passage again because I didn't understand them the first time. I always make sure to start with the natural science passage, since I'm a math/science person, but that never really helps. Does anyone have any good tips on how to improve the reading score? I have no idea where to go from here, and I've done tons of practice. Thanks!</p>

2

<p>Great, thanks! I tried another test today and I got a 32 (somehow!). Every time I try and speed read, I pretty much have no idea what I’m reading about and then I have to go back and read. It’ll take some practice. Thanks!</p>

3

<p>Your scores are very similar to my son’s scores. If the reading passages bore you, work on your active reading. After reading each paragraph, go back and circle three key words in each paragraph. This forces you to reflect on the paragraph you just read and creates a “map” of key words. At the end of each reading section, create a 3-5 word sentence that summarizes the passage (the main idea). Go through several practice tests to better understand what you should have circled and refine the process as you go. Build accuracy before building for speed. This strategy takes some practice, but was very helpful for my son who thought the reading sections were incredibly boring. </p>