The ACT test^® may seem overwhelming, but after taking a prep class I’ve learned a lot of helpful tips to familiarize myself with the test. So if you need a few tips, I hope this blog will help.

The basic information you need to know about is the test format and its purpose. The ACT is a curriculum-based achievement exam. It tests what you’ve actually learned in high school.

When you register (the next test is September 11, 2010), you answer questions about what interests you about school and life. Then when you get your score report, you also receive a lot of good information about choosing high school classes, college readiness, career planning, and college admissions.

The ACT has four sections—English, mathematics, reading and science—and it takes about three hours to complete. If you register for the optional ACT Plus Writing, that section takes an extra 30 minutes.

There are two main strategies I followed in every section that may help you too:

• Answer every question, because you don’t get penalized for wrong answers
• If you have time, go back and check all your answers

The first section is English. In this section you read a story. There will be an underlined word or words and you mark whether they are accurate, require no change or need to be replaced. Some questions also ask about sentence placement and order.

Next is the math section. If you are talking higher placement math classes it’s important that you don’t forget how to do geometry and algebra. So if you need to, make sure you brush up on your skills.

The reading section is the third section. The first passage usually involves a narrative story; it’s important to visualize this passage. The questions for this passage are based on how the characters react to each other and different situations, as well as the author’s point of view. Be sure to read each passage through before answering the questions that follow.

The science section has a lot of charts and figures. Don’t freak out if you don’t remember anything from biology and chemistry. You aren’t required to remember chemistry equations or statistical facts. There are short passages with the charts and figures that contain important information.

If you registered for the optional essay, it will be the last part of the test you will take. The topics, I found, are very straightforward.

The ACT website, www.actstudent.org, has a ton of helpful information and free sample items to help you get ready for the exam. However, I’ve found that the best preparation is to take the tough classes in high school.

The main concern for me taking the ACT test was time. Consider taking a practice test or two to gain experience and to become familiar with the format. Practice makes perfect. Eat a good breakfast and try not to get stressed. You will be fine!