Raw Score
Number of correct answers on a section.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Free knowledge base
ACT (Enhanced) — key terms, tricks & tips
Everything from the course in one searchable place: 240 entries. Use it to review before a practice test or look up a word you forgot.
240 results
Scaled Score
Raw score converted to 1-36 scale, adjusted for difficulty.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Composite Score
Average of the four multiple-choice scaled scores.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
English Section
Tests grammar, punctuation, rhetoric; 75 questions, 45 mins.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Math Section
Tests pre-algebra to trigonometry; 60 questions, 60 mins.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Reading Section
Tests comprehension of passages; 40 questions, 35 mins.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Science Section
Tests interpretation of data, experiments; 40 questions, 35 mins.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Writing Section
Optional essay, scored 2-12, not part of Composite.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Understanding the ACT Structure and Scoring
E-M-R-S: 'Every Morning, Reading Science' helps remember the order of the core sections.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Understanding the ACT Structure and Scoring
Memorize the exact order of the four multiple-choice sections: English, Math, Reading, Science. This sequence is invariant on every ACT.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Understanding the ACT Structure and Scoring
Not answering every question: There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so always guess if you don't know.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Understanding the ACT Structure and Scoring
Ignoring the optional Writing section: Some colleges require it; always check your target schools' policies.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Understanding the ACT Structure and Scoring
Misunderstanding the Composite Score: It's only the average of the four multiple-choice sections, not including Writing.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Diagnostic Test
A full practice test to assess initial strengths and weaknesses.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Target Score
The desired ACT score, often based on college admissions requirements.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Study Timeline
A schedule outlining study activities leading up to the test date.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Content Review
Revisiting academic concepts tested on the ACT.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Practice Test
A simulated ACT exam taken under timed conditions.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Official Guide
ACT-published materials containing real past test questions.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Progress Tracking
Monitoring scores and performance to evaluate study effectiveness.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Creating Your Personalized ACT Study Plan
PLAN: P-Prioritize (weaknesses), L-Logistics (time/resources), A-Adapt (as you go), N-Nail it (test day)!
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Creating Your Personalized ACT Study Plan
On the ACT, understanding how to manage your time effectively across different sections is crucial. The exam tests not only your knowledge but also your ability to work efficiently under pressure. Practice with a timer from day one.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Creating Your Personalized ACT Study Plan
Not taking a diagnostic test: This leads to studying without knowing your true starting point.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Creating Your Personalized ACT Study Plan
Creating an unrealistic schedule: Overly ambitious plans are hard to stick to and lead to burnout.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Creating Your Personalized ACT Study Plan
Ignoring practice tests: Only reviewing content isn't enough; you need to practice applying it under timed conditions.
Getting Started: How the ACT Works
Purpose
The main goal or aim of the passage.
Mastering ACT English
Audience
The intended readers of the passage.
Mastering ACT English
Relevance
How closely information relates to the topic.
Mastering ACT English
Cohesion
How well parts of a passage connect logically.
Mastering ACT English
Conciseness
Using only necessary words; being brief.
Mastering ACT English
Transition
Words or phrases linking ideas smoothly.
Mastering ACT English
Placement
The most logical position for new information.
Mastering ACT English
Production of Writing: Strategy & Practice
P.L.A.C.E. - Purpose, Logic, Audience, Cohesion, End. Remember to consider all these when evaluating writing production questions!
Mastering ACT English
Production of Writing: Strategy & Practice
On the ACT English, 'Production of Writing' questions often include phrases like 'Given that the preceding paragraph focuses on...', 'To make this paragraph most logical, sentence X should be placed...', or 'The writer is considering adding the following sentence. Should the writer make this addition?' Always refer to the passage's overall purpose and the specific paragraph's main idea.
Mastering ACT English
Production of Writing: Strategy & Practice
Adding information that is interesting but irrelevant to the passage's main point.
Mastering ACT English
Production of Writing: Strategy & Practice
Choosing a placement that disrupts the chronological or logical flow of ideas.
Mastering ACT English
Production of Writing: Strategy & Practice
Selecting a conclusion that introduces new arguments instead of summarizing existing ones.
Mastering ACT English
Redundancy
Using unnecessary words that repeat information already conveyed.
Mastering ACT English
Precision
Using words that are exact and appropriate for the intended meaning.
Mastering ACT English
Wordiness
Using more words than necessary to express an idea.
Mastering ACT English
Tone
The author's attitude toward the subject or audience, conveyed through word choice.
Mastering ACT English
Dangling Modifier
A descriptive phrase that doesn't clearly modify any word in the sentence.
Mastering ACT English
Misplaced Modifier
A descriptive phrase placed too far from the word it modifies, causing confusion.
Mastering ACT English
Style & Clarity: Make Your Writing Shine
P.C.C.T. - Precision, Conciseness, Clarity, Tone. Remember these four pillars to make your writing shine!
Mastering ACT English
Style & Clarity: Make Your Writing Shine
The ACT English section specifically tests your ability to 'make choices that improve the clarity and conciseness of writing.' Look for options that remove unnecessary words or phrases without altering the original meaning.
Mastering ACT English
Style & Clarity: Make Your Writing Shine
Choosing a longer, more 'academic-sounding' option over a shorter, clearer one.
Mastering ACT English
Style & Clarity: Make Your Writing Shine
Removing words that are actually essential for the sentence's meaning.
Mastering ACT English
Style & Clarity: Make Your Writing Shine
Failing to consider the overall tone and style of the passage when making a choice.
Mastering ACT English
Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject and verb must match in number.
Mastering ACT English
Pronoun Agreement
Pronoun must match its antecedent in number/gender.
Mastering ACT English
Antecedent
The noun a pronoun refers to or replaces.
Mastering ACT English
Pronoun Case
Form of pronoun based on its function (subject/object).
Mastering ACT English
Nominative Case
Pronouns used as subjects (e.g., I, he, who).
Mastering ACT English
Objective Case
Pronouns used as objects (e.g., me, him, whom).
Mastering ACT English
Indefinite Pronouns
Pronouns that don't refer to specific people/things.
Mastering ACT English
Collective Nouns
Nouns representing a group (e.g., team, family).
Mastering ACT English
Grammar Rules: Subject-Verb Agreement & Pronouns
SVA: 'S' for Subject, 'V' for Verb, 'A' for Agreement – they always 'Agree' in number! Pronouns: 'P' for Pronoun, 'A' for Antecedent – they 'Agree' too!
Mastering ACT English
Grammar Rules: Subject-Verb Agreement & Pronouns
The ACT English section often tests subject-verb agreement with compound subjects, inverted sentences, and indefinite pronouns. For pronoun errors, look for agreement with the antecedent and correct pronoun case (nominative vs. objective, especially 'who' vs. 'whom').
Mastering ACT English
Grammar Rules: Subject-Verb Agreement & Pronouns
Ignoring intervening phrases between the subject and verb, leading to incorrect agreement.
Mastering ACT English
Grammar Rules: Subject-Verb Agreement & Pronouns
Treating indefinite pronouns (like 'everyone' or 'each') as plural instead of singular.
Mastering ACT English
Grammar Rules: Subject-Verb Agreement & Pronouns
Confusing 'who' (subject) with 'whom' (object) or 'I' (subject) with 'me' (object) in compound constructions.
Mastering ACT English
Independent Clause
A group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.
Mastering ACT English
Dependent Clause
A group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought.
Mastering ACT English
Coordinating Conjunction
Words like 'for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so' used to connect grammatically equal elements.
Mastering ACT English
Oxford Comma
The comma used before the conjunction (e.g., 'and') in a list of three or more items.
Mastering ACT English
Em Dash
Punctuation mark (—) used for emphasis, explanation, or an abrupt change in thought.
Mastering ACT English
Apostrophe
Punctuation mark (') used to indicate possession or form contractions.
Mastering ACT English
Non-essential Clause
A clause that provides extra information but is not necessary for the sentence's meaning.
Mastering ACT English
Punctuation & Usage: Commas, Semicolons, & More
For comma rules, remember 'FANBOYS' for coordinating conjunctions, and 'LIST' for Lists, Introductions, Sentence connectors (compound sentences), and Tag questions.
Mastering ACT English
Punctuation & Usage: Commas, Semicolons, & More
The ACT English section frequently tests your ability to distinguish between essential and non-essential clauses or phrases, which dictates the correct use of commas, dashes, or parentheses. Look for keywords like 'which' (often signals non-essential) versus 'that' (often signals essential).
Mastering ACT English
Punctuation & Usage: Commas, Semicolons, & More
Using a comma to separate two independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction (this is a comma splice).
Mastering ACT English
Punctuation & Usage: Commas, Semicolons, & More
Confusing 'its' (possessive) with 'it's' (it is) or 'their' (possessive) with 'they're' (they are).
Mastering ACT English
Punctuation & Usage: Commas, Semicolons, & More
Omitting commas after introductory phrases or clauses, leading to confusion.
Mastering ACT English
Usage/Mechanics
Questions on grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure.
Mastering ACT English
Rhetorical Skills
Questions on strategy, organization, and writing style.
Mastering ACT English
Time Management
Strategically allocating time to complete the section.
Mastering ACT English
Mistake Log
A record of errors to track patterns and weaknesses.
Mastering ACT English
Full-Length English Section Practice
For ACT English, remember 'GRAMMAR': **G**et **R**eady, **A**lways **M**anage **A**ll **R**ules!
Mastering ACT English
Full-Length English Section Practice
The ACT English section assesses your ability to identify and correct errors in standard written English, including sentence structure, usage, and mechanics, as well as your understanding of rhetorical skills like strategy, organization, and style. Look for keywords such as 'most effective,' 'best introduces,' or 'should the writer add.'
Mastering ACT English
Full-Length English Section Practice
Spending too much time on a single difficult question.
Mastering ACT English
Full-Length English Section Practice
Not reviewing all questions (correct and incorrect) after practice.
Mastering ACT English
Full-Length English Section Practice
Ignoring the context of the entire sentence or paragraph when answering questions.
Mastering ACT English
Variable
A symbol representing an unknown value.
Conquering ACT Math
Equation
A statement that two expressions are equal.
Conquering ACT Math
Inequality
A statement comparing two expressions using <, >, ≤, or ≥.
Conquering ACT Math
Polynomial
An expression with variables and coefficients, non-negative integer exponents.
Conquering ACT Math
Function
A relation where each input has exactly one output.
Conquering ACT Math
Domain
The set of all possible input values for a function.
Conquering ACT Math
Range
The set of all possible output values for a function.
Conquering ACT Math
Quadratic Equation
A polynomial equation of degree two (ax² + bx + c = 0).
Conquering ACT Math
Algebra & Functions: Foundations for Higher Math
FOIL: First, Outer, Inner, Last – for multiplying two binomials. It helps you remember all the pairs you need to multiply!
Conquering ACT Math
Algebra & Functions: Foundations for Higher Math
The ACT Math section frequently tests your ability to solve systems of linear equations, both algebraically and by interpreting graphs. Look for keywords like 'simultaneously satisfy' or 'point of intersection'.
Conquering ACT Math
Algebra & Functions: Foundations for Higher Math
Forgetting to reverse the inequality sign when multiplying or dividing by a negative number.
Conquering ACT Math
Algebra & Functions: Foundations for Higher Math
Making arithmetic errors when substituting values into functions or equations.
Conquering ACT Math
Algebra & Functions: Foundations for Higher Math
Incorrectly distributing negative signs when subtracting polynomials or solving equations.
Conquering ACT Math
Perimeter
Distance around a 2D shape.
Conquering ACT Math
Area
Space enclosed within a 2D shape.
Conquering ACT Math
Volume
Space occupied by a 3D object.
Conquering ACT Math
Circumference
Perimeter of a circle.
Conquering ACT Math
Hypotenuse
Longest side of a right triangle.
Conquering ACT Math
Sine (sin)
Opposite/Hypotenuse ratio.
Conquering ACT Math
Cosine (cos)
Adjacent/Hypotenuse ratio.
Conquering ACT Math
Tangent (tan)
Opposite/Adjacent ratio.
Conquering ACT Math
Geometry & Trigonometry Essentials
SOH CAH TOA: Some Old Hippie, Caught Another Hippie, Tripping On Acid. (Sine=Opposite/Hypotenuse, Cosine=Adjacent/Hypotenuse, Tangent=Opposite/Adjacent)
Conquering ACT Math
Geometry & Trigonometry Essentials
The ACT Math exam requires knowledge of basic trigonometric ratios (sine, cosine, tangent) for acute angles in right triangles. You must be able to solve for missing side lengths or angle measures using these ratios.
Conquering ACT Math
Geometry & Trigonometry Essentials
Confusing area with perimeter or volume formulas.
Conquering ACT Math
Geometry & Trigonometry Essentials
Incorrectly identifying opposite, adjacent, and hypotenuse in a right triangle.
Conquering ACT Math
Geometry & Trigonometry Essentials
Forgetting to convert units or use the correct units in final answers.
Conquering ACT Math
Integrated Problem
A math problem requiring multiple skills from different topics.
Conquering ACT Math
Mathematical Model
Translating a real-world situation into equations or diagrams.
Conquering ACT Math
Ratio
A comparison of two quantities by division.
Conquering ACT Math
Proportional Reasoning
Understanding how quantities change in relation to each other.
Conquering ACT Math
Interpretation
Explaining mathematical results in the problem's context.
Conquering ACT Math
Integrating Essential Skills & Modeling
To tackle integrated problems, remember 'DREAM': Define, Relate, Execute, Analyze, Make sense!
Conquering ACT Math
Integrating Essential Skills & Modeling
The ACT often presents 'modeling' problems, where you must construct a function or equation to represent a real-world scenario. Look for keywords like 'represents,' 'models,' or 'can be expressed as' to identify these questions. You need to be able to define variables and set up the correct mathematical relationship.
Conquering ACT Math
Integrating Essential Skills & Modeling
Misinterpreting the problem: Not fully understanding what is being asked or what information is provided.
Conquering ACT Math
Integrating Essential Skills & Modeling
Ignoring units: Forgetting to include units in the final answer or performing calculations with inconsistent units.
Conquering ACT Math
Integrating Essential Skills & Modeling
Not checking reasonableness: Getting a numerical answer but failing to consider if it makes sense in the real-world context.
Conquering ACT Math
Mean
The average of a set of numbers.
Conquering ACT Math
Median
The middle value in an ordered data set.
Conquering ACT Math
Mode
The value that appears most often in a data set.
Conquering ACT Math
Probability
The likelihood of an event occurring.
Conquering ACT Math
Independent Events
Events where the outcome of one does not affect the other.
Conquering ACT Math
Dependent Events
Events where the outcome of one affects the other.
Conquering ACT Math
Mutually Exclusive
Events that cannot happen at the same time.
Conquering ACT Math
Statistics & Probability Fundamentals
Mean is the 'mean' one to calculate (requires adding and dividing). Median is 'middle.' Mode is 'most often.' Range is 'R-E-A-C-H' from min to max.
Conquering ACT Math
Statistics & Probability Fundamentals
The ACT Math section expects you to 'calculate and interpret statistics including mean, median, mode, and range' and 'determine the probability of simple and compound events.' Look for keywords like 'average,' 'middle value,' 'most frequent,' and 'likelihood.'
Conquering ACT Math
Statistics & Probability Fundamentals
Not ordering data before finding the median.
Conquering ACT Math
Statistics & Probability Fundamentals
Confusing mean, median, and mode definitions.
Conquering ACT Math
Statistics & Probability Fundamentals
Forgetting to account for replacement (or lack thereof) in compound probability problems.
Conquering ACT Math
Statistics & Probability Fundamentals
Misinterpreting graph scales or labels.
Conquering ACT Math
Pacing
Managing time effectively across the test section.
Conquering ACT Math
Error Log
A record of mistakes to identify patterns and weaknesses.
Conquering ACT Math
Educated Guess
A guess made by eliminating some incorrect answer choices.
Conquering ACT Math
Content Domains
The specific math topics covered on the ACT.
Conquering ACT Math
Strategic Review
Analyzing both correct and incorrect answers after practice.
Conquering ACT Math
Question Difficulty
The general ordering of questions from easy to hard.
Conquering ACT Math
Full-Length Math Section Practice
For ACT Math, remember 'PACE': Practice, Anticipate, Check, Evaluate. Practice consistently, Anticipate question types, Check your work, and Evaluate your mistakes!
Conquering ACT Math
Full-Length Math Section Practice
The ACT Math section requires students to demonstrate proficiency in problem-solving and reasoning across quantitative domains, including number and quantity, algebra, functions, geometry, and statistics and probability. Be prepared for questions that integrate multiple concepts.
Conquering ACT Math
Full-Length Math Section Practice
Spending too much time on a single difficult question, sacrificing easier points later in the section.
Conquering ACT Math
Full-Length Math Section Practice
Not reviewing practice tests thoroughly to understand why mistakes were made, leading to repeated errors.
Conquering ACT Math
Full-Length Math Section Practice
Ignoring the answer choices and always trying to solve problems from scratch, missing opportunities for strategic shortcuts.
Conquering ACT Math
Main Idea
The central point or message of a passage.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Supporting Evidence
Facts, examples, or details that prove the main idea.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Topic Sentence
A sentence stating the main idea of a paragraph.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Inference
A conclusion reached based on evidence and reasoning.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Explicit
Stated clearly and directly in the text.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Implicit
Suggested or hinted at, not directly stated.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Detail
A small piece of information; a specific fact.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Main Idea & Supporting Evidence
Think of a 'M.I.S.S.' for Main Idea and Supporting Sentences. The Main Idea is the MISSing piece if you only have details!
Excelling in ACT Reading
Main Idea & Supporting Evidence
The ACT Reading section frequently asks you to 'identify the main idea or purpose of a passage or paragraph' and to 'locate and interpret specific details or evidence.' Pay close attention to introductory and concluding sentences, as well as phrases like 'the author's primary argument is' or 'which of the following details supports the claim.'
Excelling in ACT Reading
Main Idea & Supporting Evidence
Choosing an answer that is only a supporting detail, not the main idea.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Main Idea & Supporting Evidence
Selecting an answer that is too broad or introduces new information not in the passage.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Main Idea & Supporting Evidence
Failing to go back to the passage to verify evidence, relying instead on memory.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Author's Purpose
The reason an author writes a text.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Inform
To provide facts or information.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Persuade
To convince the reader of a viewpoint.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Objective
Neutral, unbiased, factual tone.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Critical
Expressing disapproval or fault-finding.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Appreciative
Showing gratitude or admiration.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Diction
An author's choice of words.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Author's Purpose & Tone
P.I.E. for Purpose: Persuade, Inform, Entertain. For Tone, think of the 'T' in Tone as 'Telling' how the author 'Feels.'
Excelling in ACT Reading
Author's Purpose & Tone
On the ACT, questions about author's purpose often use keywords like 'main purpose,' 'primarily intends to,' or 'best described as.' Tone questions use 'author's attitude,' 'tone of the passage,' or 'how the author feels.' Always look for specific phrases or words in the text to support your answer.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Author's Purpose & Tone
Confusing the reader's feeling with the author's tone.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Author's Purpose & Tone
Choosing an extreme tone when the language is more moderate.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Author's Purpose & Tone
Selecting a purpose that is only a minor point, not the main one.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Paired Passages
Two related texts presented together on the ACT Reading section.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Comparison Questions
Questions requiring analysis of both passages, identifying similarities/differences.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Agreement
Points where authors share similar views or facts.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Disagreement
Points where authors hold contrasting or opposing views.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Synthesis
Combining information from multiple sources to form a new understanding.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Perspective
An author's unique viewpoint or stance on a topic.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Comparing Texts on the ACT Reading Section
Think 'C.A.R.E.': Compare, Agree, React, Evaluate. When tackling paired passages, you're always doing one of these!
Excelling in ACT Reading
Comparing Texts on the ACT Reading Section
The ACT Reading section's 'Integration of Knowledge & Ideas' objective specifically tests your ability to 'synthesize information and ideas from texts' and 'compare and contrast ideas, arguments, and claims.' Look for questions that ask about 'relationships between texts' or 'how one text relates to another.'
Excelling in ACT Reading
Comparing Texts on the ACT Reading Section
Focusing only on one passage when the question asks about both.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Comparing Texts on the ACT Reading Section
Confusing the main idea of one passage with the main idea of the other.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Comparing Texts on the ACT Reading Section
Misinterpreting subtle differences as major disagreements, or vice versa.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Skimming
Quickly reading for general understanding.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Scanning
Searching for specific keywords or details.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Prose Fiction
Literary narratives, often focusing on characters/plot.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Social Science
Passages about human society and relationships.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Humanities
Texts on arts, philosophy, history, or culture.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Natural Science
Passages on biology, chemistry, physics, etc.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Reading Comprehension Strategies & Pacing
For ACT Reading, remember 'PASS': P-Preview, A-Adapt, S-Scan, S-Skip (and return).
Excelling in ACT Reading
Reading Comprehension Strategies & Pacing
The ACT Reading section always presents passages in the same order: Prose Fiction, Social Science, Humanities, and Natural Science. Knowing this order can help you anticipate the type of text you'll encounter next.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Reading Comprehension Strategies & Pacing
Spending too much time on a single difficult question.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Reading Comprehension Strategies & Pacing
Reading every single word of every passage with equal intensity.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Reading Comprehension Strategies & Pacing
Not practicing with a timer, leading to poor pacing on test day.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Full-Length Reading Section Practice
P.S. H.N. - 'Please Stop Hitting Neighbors!' to remember the passage order: Prose Fiction, Social Science, Humanities, Natural Science.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Full-Length Reading Section Practice
The ACT Reading section always presents passages in the order of Prose Fiction, Social Science, Humanities, and Natural Science. Memorizing this sequence helps you anticipate content and manage your mental energy for each passage type.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Full-Length Reading Section Practice
Spending too much time on one difficult question or passage, leaving insufficient time for others.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Full-Length Reading Section Practice
Reading the passage too slowly or rereading excessively, rather than actively engaging and moving forward.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Full-Length Reading Section Practice
Not referring back to the passage to confirm answers, relying solely on memory which can lead to errors.
Excelling in ACT Reading
Line Graph
Shows data changes over continuous variable.
Decoding ACT Science
Bar Graph
Compares discrete categories or groups.
Decoding ACT Science
Scatter Plot
Shows relationship between two variables.
Decoding ACT Science
X-axis
Horizontal axis, independent variable.
Decoding ACT Science
Y-axis
Vertical axis, dependent variable.
Decoding ACT Science
Interpolation
Estimating data within known range.
Decoding ACT Science
Extrapolation
Estimating data outside known range.
Decoding ACT Science
Trend
General direction or pattern of data.
Decoding ACT Science
Interpreting Data: Graphs & Tables
GRAPH: G-Get labels, R-Read axes, A-Analyze trends, P-Pinpoint data, H-Hypothesize (if asked).
Decoding ACT Science
Interpreting Data: Graphs & Tables
The ACT Science section often asks you to identify relationships between variables. Look for keywords like 'as X increases, what happens to Y?' or 'which trial shows the greatest change?'
Decoding ACT Science
Interpreting Data: Graphs & Tables
Confusing the X and Y axes or their units.
Decoding ACT Science
Interpreting Data: Graphs & Tables
Misreading a specific data point from a graph or table.
Decoding ACT Science
Interpreting Data: Graphs & Tables
Extrapolating beyond the data range without caution.
Decoding ACT Science
Interpreting Data: Graphs & Tables
Ignoring the title or legend, leading to misinterpretation.
Decoding ACT Science
Hypothesis
A testable prediction or proposed explanation.
Decoding ACT Science
Independent Variable
The factor manipulated by the experimenter.
Decoding ACT Science
Dependent Variable
The factor measured; it responds to the IV.
Decoding ACT Science
Control Variables
Factors kept constant to ensure fair testing.
Decoding ACT Science
Control Group
Group not receiving the experimental treatment.
Decoding ACT Science
Experimental Group
Group receiving the experimental treatment.
Decoding ACT Science
Empirical Evidence
Data collected through observation or experimentation.
Decoding ACT Science
Scientific Investigation: Experiments & Hypotheses
IV is 'I Vary' (what I change), DV is 'Depends on' (what depends on my change), Control is 'Constant' (what stays the same).
Decoding ACT Science
Scientific Investigation: Experiments & Hypotheses
On the ACT Science, identify the independent variable as what is 'changed' or 'varied' by the researchers, and the dependent variable as what is 'measured' or 'observed' as a result. Look for phrases like 'Students varied...' or 'The effect on...' to spot them.
Decoding ACT Science
Scientific Investigation: Experiments & Hypotheses
Confusing independent and dependent variables, which leads to misinterpreting results.
Decoding ACT Science
Scientific Investigation: Experiments & Hypotheses
Not recognizing the purpose of a control group, thinking it's just another experimental condition.
Decoding ACT Science
Scientific Investigation: Experiments & Hypotheses
Failing to identify control variables, making it seem like multiple factors are changing.
Decoding ACT Science
Scientific Model
A simplified representation to explain phenomena.
Decoding ACT Science
Assumption
Something accepted as true without proof.
Decoding ACT Science
Consistency
Agreement between a model and observed data.
Decoding ACT Science
Prediction
A forecast based on a model or hypothesis.
Decoding ACT Science
Anomaly
An observation that deviates from what is standard.
Decoding ACT Science
Evaluating Models & Inferences
MODEL: **M**atch **O**bservations, **D**iscuss **E**vidence, **L**imitations noted.
Decoding ACT Science
Evaluating Models & Inferences
The ACT Science section often presents multiple viewpoints or models. You must identify which model is best supported by new evidence, or what evidence would strengthen/weaken a given model. Keywords to spot: 'supports,' 'weakens,' 'consistent with,' 'best explains,' 'inference.'
Decoding ACT Science
Evaluating Models & Inferences
Confusing an inference with an assumption or a wild guess.
Decoding ACT Science
Evaluating Models & Inferences
Bringing in outside scientific knowledge not provided in the passage.
Decoding ACT Science
Evaluating Models & Inferences
Failing to identify data that directly contradicts a model's prediction.
Decoding ACT Science
Evaluating Models & Inferences
Extrapolating data or trends beyond the range presented in the graphs/tables.
Decoding ACT Science
Viewpoint
A particular perspective or opinion on a scientific phenomenon.
Decoding ACT Science
Evidence
Information or observations that support or refute a claim.
Decoding ACT Science
Conflicting
In disagreement; presenting opposing ideas or results.
Decoding ACT Science
Argument
A set of reasons given with the aim of persuading others that an action or idea is right or wrong.
Decoding ACT Science
Mechanism
The process or system by which something operates or happens.
Decoding ACT Science
Experimental Results & Conflicting Viewpoints
To tackle Conflicting Viewpoints, remember 'HEAR': Hypothesis, Evidence, Agree/Disagree, Reconcile. First, identify the Hypothesis. Then, look for the Evidence. Next, figure out where they Agree/Disagree. Finally, try to Reconcile or understand the differences.
Decoding ACT Science
Experimental Results & Conflicting Viewpoints
The ACT Science section often tests your ability to identify fundamental assumptions underlying each viewpoint and how those assumptions influence the conclusions drawn. Look for keywords like 'assumes,' 'presupposes,' or 'based on the idea that.'
Decoding ACT Science
Experimental Results & Conflicting Viewpoints
Only reading the first sentence of each viewpoint and assuming you understand the full argument.
Decoding ACT Science
Experimental Results & Conflicting Viewpoints
Trying to decide which viewpoint is 'correct' instead of analyzing their arguments objectively.
Decoding ACT Science
Experimental Results & Conflicting Viewpoints
Failing to identify the specific points of disagreement between the viewpoints.
Decoding ACT Science