ACT Reading

A comprehensive guide to mastering the reading section of the ACT, focusing on comprehension, analysis, and strategic test-taking.

Understanding ACT Reading PassagesMain Ideas and Supporting DetailsInference and Interpretation
Analyzing Author's Purpose and ToneComparing Multiple PerspectivesInterpreting Visual and Quantitative Information
Applying ACT Reading Skills to Academic SuccessUsing Reading Skills in the WorkplaceBecoming an Informed Citizen
Time Management During the ACT Reading TestElimination and Educated GuessingActive Reading Techniques
Understanding ACT Re...Main Ideas and Suppo...Inference and Interp...Analyzing Author's P...Comparing Multiple P...Interpreting Visual ...Applying ACT Reading...Using Reading Skills...Becoming an Informed...Time Management Duri...Elimination and Educ...Active Reading Techn...
Study Strategies

Elimination and Educated Guessing

Boost Your Odds

Not sure of the answer? No problem! The ACT doesn't penalize you for wrong answers, so use process of elimination and make your best guess.

How to Eliminate Choices

  • Cross out obviously wrong or extreme answers.
  • Look for choices that don’t match the passage’s main ideas or details.
  • Narrow your options to two, then pick the best fit.

Why Guessing is Smart

Eliminating wrong answers increases your odds of guessing correctly. It’s always better to guess than to leave a question blank!

Examples

  • Eliminating two answer choices that misinterpret the passage, then selecting the best from the remaining ones.

  • Guessing after narrowing options to two, rather than leaving the question blank.

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Active Reading Techniques