What are some good techniques for the ACT reading and science? Just like a lot of people, I ALWAYS run out of time. I practiced using the official ACT prep book but when it came to techniques, the book was slacking haha. I usually spend like 2 mins skimming over the passages but no luck.
Thanks.
Reading and Science have VERY different strategies.
On Reading, I found it very effective to spend 4 - 5 minutes reading each passage. “But wait,” you might say’ “that leaves only about 20 seconds per question!” In truth, the extra time spent reading each passage cuts down the amount of time needed to answer each question immensely. You are much better off getting a thorough understanding of the passage, instead of only skimming the passage for 2 minutes and then constantly having to look back in the passage to answer the questions. I do not suggest taking notes; only underline or circle things that seem really important. And be especially careful to avoid letting your opinion influence your responses, because nearly all ACT questions are directly from the passage. I got a 36 on the December ACT Reading section.
On Science, I also scored 34 - 36, and got a 35 in December. For this section, just look at the question, then look at the diagram. If it is the Conflicting Viewpoints one, then treat it like a reading passage.
Only read the reading passages first if it is the first one (fiction) or if the humanities is in memoir format. Then answer the questions. (Time yourself not to go over 8.5 minutes.) For the non-fiction reading, read the title in the “blurb,” then do the questions first, but save “purpose” or “main idea” questions for last.
Similarly, don’t study the science diagrams first. Read one line to know the topic. Then skip to the questions and read the answers too. Underline clues and circle the actual question. Note the kinds of info offered in the answers. Then follow the clues to find the right data or words in the passage or think of the outside knowledge that will help you pick the right answer.
Good luck!