Hi, I am a Senior in high school, and I am struggling with my ACT score.
I’ve taken the test twice; and my first score was a 17 (taken Sophomore year), and my second was a 16 (taken Junior year).
I am a good student with a 4.0 GPA, but, for unknown reasons, I cannot get a good score on the ACT.
I am currently attending an ACT Prep class and taking practice tests everyday (through Varsity Tutors). What else should I do to improve my score (my goal is a 34)?
Does anyone have an idea as to why my results were so bad?
Any help would be wonderful!
Your ACT scores are REALLY low and to improve it to a 34 is a pretty big jump. Only you can actually know why you are doing bad on the ACT, there is no way for others to tell. My guess is you have a very weak education (your 4.0 doesn’t mean much if it’s with all easy classes), or you’re not good with the ACT timing. Have you tried the SAT?
I understand my ACT scores are low, that’s why I am asking for help. I also understand that’s a big jump, but I have until May to improve my score, and I am going to be taking all the tests available.
Only one class I’ve taken was simple (world geography). The others were college-leveled courses that weren’t easy.
Timing isn’t an issue.
SAT isn’t offered in my state.
This didn’t answer my question, but thanks anyway.
Well, is your score low because you don’t understand the questions that the ACT asks? If that’s the case, a lot of practice and your prep program will definitely help you. The only explanation I have for your low scores is that you simply don’t understand the material, but then your 4.0 GPA with college-leveled courses contradicts that because one wouldn’t expect you to score that low on the ACT with such a solid GPA.
Maybe posting your ACT sub scores and your HS course load will help others give you a better diagnosis. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone with such a solid GPA scoring so low on the ACT, so your situation really interests me and I hope you find your answers.
@adetula Of course you can improve! I am glad you are taking a class and the resources on varsity tutor are also very helpful to learn the specific concepts you need to know. The site is organized so well. Use the month of July tostudy the concepts on the ACT.
On August 1st, I suggest you start this schedule:
The best way to study for the ACT is to practice with REAL ACT tests. There are 5 tests in the Red ACT Book, 3rd Edition. They are old, but you will be able to get a good foundation of the concepts tested.
ACT released several tests in booklet form. Use them next.
TIME each practice session to simulate the real test.
English 75 questions in 45 min.
Math 60 questions in 60 min.
Reading 40 questions in 35 min.
Science 40 questions in 35 min
Score your test, and then review only what you got wrong after each practice session.
Take 1 section each week night/with review for 4 nights/week.
Twice per month on a Saturday or Sunday take a full ACT test/with review.
Good luck!
This is a wonderful idea, thank you so much!
I have been timing my practice sessions, and it has helped me immensely with learning how to properly manage my time.
Thanks again!
can you tell us the breakdown of your score? That way you can use HereToHelpYou’s plan and focus on your weaknesses more. I would say aim for a lower goal of around 25 and once you have achieved that, a goal of 30. Then a goal of 34 would be more realistic. Also, don’t forget to use the Red Book. I studied for about a month and a half. I did one section per night and ended up getting 32. Practice makes perfect. Good luck! My goal is also a 34.