Start Here 1 About This Book 1 Foolish Assumptions 1 Icons Used in This Book 2 Where to Go from Here 2 Block 1: Act Overview in 20 Minutes 3 Registering for the ACT 3 Choosing when to take the test 4 Deciding whether to take the writing test 5 Asking for accommodations or English learner supports 5 Requesting a fee waiver 5 Signing up for your test 6 Identifying What to Bring to the Test 6 Knowing What to Expect During the Test 7 Exam room rules 8 The order, topics, and time for each section 8 What the ACT expects you to know 9 Identifying Strategies for Test-Taking Success 10 Managing your time 10 Keeping track of your answers 11 Coping with stress and anxiety 11 Eliminating answers 12 Reading actively to stay focused 12 Reviewing your responses 12 Understanding Your Score 12 Guessing for points to maximize your score 12 Interpreting your overall score 13 Repeating the test to improve your score 14 Block 2: Preparing for the Test! 17 Punctuating the English Test 17 Understanding the question types 18 Reviewing grammar and usage 18 Sizing Up the Math Test 23 Understanding the test format 23 Recognizing number basics 24 Reviewing geometry and trig 34 Solving algebraic equations and more 39 Comprehending the Reading Test 47 Understanding the topics 48 Identifying the question types 48 Peering into the Science Test 50 Classifying passage format 50 Analyzing tables, graphics, and diagrams 51 Organizing Your Writing Test Essay 52 Examining the prompt and creating a thesis 52 Demonstrating key writing skills 53 Block 3: Working Through Some Practice Questions 55 English Practice Questions 55 Math Practice Questions 61 Reading Practice Questions 67 Science Practice Questions 73 Passage 73 Initial Analysis 74 Questions 74 Writing Practice Question 79 Block 4: Taking a (Shortened) Practice Test 83 Answer Sheet 84 English Test 86 Mathematics Test 92 Reading Test 97 Science Test 103 Writing Test 109 Answers and Explanations 110 English Test 110 Mathematics Test 116 Reading Test 122 Science Test 125 Writing Test 128 Sample response 129 Block 5: Ten Tips for the Night Before Your Test 131 Know Your Time-Management Strategies 131 Review Strategies for Analyzing and Answering Questions 132 Review Your Practice Test Materials 132 Practice Your Stress-Coping Strategies 132 Plan for Arriving on Time 132 Lay Out Comfortable Clothes 133 Have Your Picture ID and Admission Ticket Ready 133 Check Your Calculator and Batteries 133 Visualize Success! 133 Get a Good Night's Sleep 133 Index 135.