How to Prepare for the ACT in a Week: A Complete Crash Course

Understanding the ACT and Creating a One-Week Study Plan

What is the ACT?

The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized college admissions test used widely across the United States. It is designed to assess a high school student’s academic skills and readiness for college-level work. The ACT includes four main sections — English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science — with an optional Writing section.

Each section is timed, and the questions are multiple-choice. Your total ACT score is an average of your scores in the four required sections, scaled from 1 to 36. Most colleges and universities in the U.S. accept ACT scores as part of their admissions process.

The ACT is not a test of intelligence but a test of how well you’ve mastered academic concepts typically taught in high school. It rewards both accuracy and time management.

Structure of the ACT

To understand how to prepare effectively, you need to know how the ACT is structured.

• English: 75 questions, 45 minutes

• Mathematics: 60 questions, 60 minutes

• Reading: 40 questions, 35 minutes

• Science: 40 questions, 35 minutes

• Optional Writing (Essay): 1 essay, 40 minutes

Each section contributes to your composite score. The Writing section is scored separately and does not affect the main composite score.

Why the ACT Matters

ACT scores can influence college admissions, scholarship eligibility, and even course placement in college. A high ACT score may make you a more competitive applicant and reduce the cost of college through merit-based scholarships. Because of this, many students feel pressure to perform well, which can create anxiety, especially when the exam day is close.

Feeling the Pressure: Why a Week Can Still Work

If you’re only a week away from your ACT date, you might feel like there isn’t enough time to prepare. However, a week can be an effective amount of time if you use it wisely. Instead of trying to learn everything from scratch, this final week should be focused on:

• Identifying and strengthening weak areas

• Reviewing concepts you already know

• Practicing with real test-like materials

• Preparing mentally and physically

Proper planning, even in the final days, can make a meaningful difference in your performance.

Setting a One-Week Study Plan

A week of preparation should be structured around both academic review and personal wellness. Here’s how your week should be organized:

• Day 1: Take a full-length practice test and review the results

• Days 2–5: Focused study sessions based on your weaknesses

• Day 6: Prepare your test materials and review lightly

• Day 7: Test day — stay calm, focused, and confident

Now, let’s dive into what you should do on Day 1.

Day 1: Taking a Full-Length ACT Practice Test

Why Start with a Practice Test?

Taking a full-length ACT practice test on your first day helps you in several ways:

• It shows you what to expect in terms of question format and difficulty

• It reveals your current skill level and highlights areas needing improvement.

• It gives you a sense of pacing and time management under test conditions.s

Completing this test under realistic conditions is essential. Try to replicate the actual test environment: a quiet room, strict timing, and only using ACT-approved tools.

Simulating Test Conditions

You should follow the official timing guidelines:

• 45 minutes for the English section

• 60 minutes for the Math section

• 35 minutes for the Reading section

• 35 minutes for the Science section

• Optional: 40 minutes for the Writing section (if you plan to take it)

Take a 10-minute break between Math and Reading, just like on the actual ACT.

Set a timer for each section. Do not pause unless it’s a scheduled break. Use only the tools allowed on test day: No notes, textbooks, or mobile phones.

What to Look For While Taking the Practice Test

As you go through the test, take mental notes on:

• Which sections feel easiest or hardest

• Where you ran out of time

• What types of questions confused you

• Whether you guessed or left questions blank

Try to be as honest with yourself as possible. Accuracy in this step will guide the rest of your study week.

Scoring and Analyzing Your Results

After completing the test, score each section using an answer key. Take note of your raw score (number of correct answers) and convert it into a scaled score using an ACT score conversion chart.

Next, break your results down further:

English Section

Did you struggle with grammar rules? Were the rhetorical questions difficult? Pay attention to repeated errors — maybe you consistently misused commas or misunderstood transitions between ideas.

Math Section

Group your missed questions by topic: Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, or Statistics. This categorization helps you focus later study sessions on areas where you’re losing points.

Reading Section

Were you able to finish all the passages? Did you comprehend the main ideas or struggle with inferential questions? If timing is a problem, you’ll need to practice skimming techniques.

Science Section

Were you confident in interpreting graphs, tables, and experimental results? Or did the scientific terminology and passage length overwhelm you?

Make a chart or log of each error type. This will be your roadmap for Days 2–5.

Using the Results to Build a Study Schedule

After analyzing your results, create a 4-day study plan (Days 2 to 5) based on what you need to work on most. Allocate more time to subjects where your scores were lowest or where your timing was poor.

For example:

• Day 2: Focus on Math and Reading

• Day 3: Focus on English and Science

• Day 4: Target your weakest overall section

• Day 5: Review everything and do timed drills

Don’t ignore your stronger areas entirely — keep them fresh with light reviews or practice questions — but prioritize your weaknesses.

Wrapping Up Day One: Establishing Healthy Habits

Once you’ve reviewed your practice test and scheduled your study days, it’s time to focus on self-care.

Start with your sleep. Go to bed at least one hour earlier than usual. Getting consistent sleep this week will help your brain consolidate information and stay alert during the test.

Also, consider your nutrition and hydration. Drink enough water during the day, and avoid sugary snacks or energy drinks. Begin eating more protein and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

In the evening, take 15 minutes to relax and reflect on your goals. Use simple breathing exercises to calm your nervous system and remind yourself that this test is just one part of your academic journey.

Targeted Study and Effective Techniques (Days 2–3)

Overview of Days 2 and 3

With the diagnostic test behind you and your weak areas identified, Days 2 and 3 are dedicated to focused study. During this time, you will reinforce knowledge in your weaker subjects while maintaining practice in your stronger areas to keep them sharp. You should aim to study for 3.5 to 4 hours daily, followed by a 1-hour review of key material.

Structure your study sessions around subjects rather than trying to cover all topics in one sitting. This keeps your mind fresh and helps you make meaningful progress in each area.

Here is a sample study structure for Day 2 and Day 3:

• 90 minutes: Focus Area 1 (your lowest scoring section)

• 60 minutes: Practice questions from another section

• 30 minutes: Break (walk, stretch, relax)

• 60 minutes: Focus Area 2 (second-lowest scoring section)

• 30 minutes: Review flashcards or error log

Tailor this framework to your schedule. Quality matters more than sheer quantity.

How to Study the ACT English Section

The English section of the ACT includes grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills. Most questions ask you to choose the best version of a sentence or passage based on specific rules.

Here are effective ways to improve:

Master the Rules of Grammar

Focus on commonly tested grammar principles:

• Subject-verb agreement

• Verb tense consistency

• Pronoun usage

• Parallel structure

• Modifiers and placement

• Punctuation rules (commas, semicolons, colons, apostrophes)

Use study guides or apps that break grammar down into short practice quizzes. Review explanations thoroughly for every incorrect answer.

Practice Editing Passages

Read short passages and identify grammatical or stylistic flaws. Rewrite the passage using ACT-style questions. This reverse-engineering method builds both editing and test-taking skills.

Understand Author’s Intent

Some questions test your ability to evaluate tone, logic, and relevance. These questions often involve deleting or adding a sentence. Ask yourself:

• Does this sentence contribute meaningfully?

• Does it reflect the tone or style of the passage?

• Is it redundant or off-topic?

This skill improves through practice. Use sample tests or prep books to build familiarity.

How to Study the ACT Math Section

The Math section requires both knowledge and speed. You have just 60 minutes to complete 60 questions, so mastering the basics and solving efficiently is critical.

Review Core Concepts

Make sure you are comfortable with:

• Linear equations and inequalities

• Quadratic equations and factoring

• Functions and their graphs

• Geometry (area, perimeter, angles, circles, triangles)

• Trigonometry (sine, cosine, tangent)

• Statistics and probability

• Word problems and interpreting charts

Use flashcards to memorize formulas like the Pythagorean Theorem, area of a circle, and trigonometric identities. Keep a personal formula sheet for quick reference during review.

Practice Solving Without a Calculator

Although calculators are allowed, many questions can be solved faster by hand. Practicing mental math builds speed and reduces reliance on technology.

Time Your Practice Sets

Complete small sets of 10–15 problems with a timer. Try to stay within one minute per question. If a problem takes longer, review the strategy instead of pushing through.

Review Mistakes Thoroughly

Every mistake is a learning opportunity. Categorize errors by type (conceptual misunderstanding, careless mistake, timing issue) and revise accordingly.

How to Study the ACT Reading Section

The Reading section demands both speed and comprehension. You must read four passages and answer 40 questions in 35 minutes.

Practice Active Reading

While reading a passage, jot down the main idea of each paragraph in the margins. This keeps your mind focused and makes it easier to locate answers.

Focus on Question Types

Common question types include:

• Main idea or primary purpose

• Detail or fact-finding

• Inference

• Vocabulary-in-context

• Author’s tone or perspective

• Comparing two viewpoints (in dual passages)

When reviewing questions, identify which types give you trouble and practice them in isolation using targeted drills.

Develop Skimming Techniques

You won’t have time to read every word slowly. Train yourself to skim for structure — intro, main arguments, transitions, and conclusions — while identifying key terms and tone shifts.

Use Process of Elimination

ACT reading questions often include answer choices that are partially true or subtly wrong. Eliminate clearly incorrect answers first, then compare the remaining options.

How to Study the ACT Science Section

The Science section doesn’t test science facts so much as reasoning and analysis. It includes charts, experiments, and conflicting viewpoints.

Familiarize Yourself With Data Presentations

Most passages include data in the form of:

• Graphs

• Tables

• Diagrams

• Scientific summaries

Learn how to interpret variables, units, and trends quickly. Don’t waste time reading the entire passage before jumping into the questions.

Understand the Three Passage Types

• Data Representation: Charts and graphs, focus on identifying trends

• Research Summaries: Experiments and methods, focus on design and outcomes

• Conflicting Viewpoints: Two opposing theories, focus on comparing reasoning

Spend extra time on conflicting viewpoint passages as they tend to be the most complex.

Improve Analytical Thinking

Questions often ask you to:

• Predict results based on a trend

• Evaluate conclusions

• Identify variables and controls

Practice these skills with short science articles, charts, or ACT prep questions.

Use Question-First Strategy

In the Science section, many students benefit from reading the question first before analyzing the passage. This allows you to search for specific data instead of reading aimlessly.

General Strategies for All Sections

Regardless of the subject, these universal tips will help you maximize your study time:

Use Flashcards and Mnemonics

Create custom flashcards for formulas, grammar rules, or key science terms. Use mnemonic devices to remember sequences or concepts.

Example: “SOH CAH TOA” for sine, cosine, and tangent in trigonometry.

Study with a Partner or Group

Discussing confusing topics with a friend can clarify concepts faster. Teaching others is also a powerful form of learning.

Apply the Pomodoro Technique

Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four cycles, take a longer 15- to 30-minute break. This method improves focus and reduces burnout.

Track Your Progress

Maintain a study log with notes on what you practiced, what you improved, and what still needs work. Seeing your progress keeps you motivated.

Balancing Study and Wellbeing

While it’s tempting to study constantly, overloading your brain can reduce retention and increase stress. Aim for balance:

• Keep a consistent sleep schedule

• Eat nutritious meals with protein and complex carbs

• Drink water throughout the day

• Take short walks or breaks outside

• Avoid excessive screen time before bed

Don’t neglect your mental health. A calm, well-rested mind performs better than an anxious, overworked one.

Review, Refine, and Reinforce (Days 4–5)

Objectives of Days 4 and 5

As you approach the end of your study week, the goal is not to introduce a flood of new information but to consolidate what you’ve already learned. These two days are crucial for:

• Practicing timing and stamina under test-like conditions

• Reviewing and mastering error patterns from earlier in the week

• Revisiting all subject areas, especially weaker ones

• Developing mental readiness for test day

• Strengthening confidence through repetition and success

You’ve already built the foundation. Now it’s time to strengthen it, polish your test-taking strategies, and reduce anxiety through preparation.

Structuring Your Study Time

Your daily study time on Days 4 and 5 should include:

• 90 minutes: Full-length section practice under timed conditions

• 60 minutes: Review and correct the practice test

• 45 minutes: Targeted drills or topic refreshers

• 30 minutes: Light review or flashcard work

• 15 minutes: Mental preparation and reflection

Make sure you are not simply working for hours without evaluating your performance. What matters now is how effectively you use your time — not just how much time you use.

Day 4: Focus on Reinforcement and Timed Practice

On Day 4, begin the day by taking one or two full sections under strict timing to simulate test conditions. Choose the section(s) that were the most challenging during your practice test.

Simulate the Test Environment

Find a quiet space. Set a timer. Use only permitted materials. Try to recreate the test setting as closely as possible. Sit at a desk, keep your phone out of reach, and take only short breaks.

Review and Analyze Your Performance

Once finished, review your answers immediately. For each incorrect question, ask yourself:

• Was the error due to misunderstanding the concept?

• Did I misread the question?

• Did I run out of time and guess?

• Was it a careless mistake?

Update your error log. This record should now be a powerful resource of your most persistent weak areas. Return to similar practice questions and make sure you now get them right.

Refresh Key Content

Use the rest of your study time to reinforce core knowledge:

• Revisit flashcards

• Drill common math formulas and grammar rules

• Re-skim reading passages with challenging vocabulary

• Review how to interpret complex science data

Do not attempt to cover everything. Focus your energy where it will yield the greatest improvement.

Finalize a Test Strategy

Decide how you will approach the test:

• Will you read the reading and science passages first or go straight to the questions?

• Do you plan to mark difficult questions and return to them?

• Will you skip certain types of math questions and come back if time allows?

Write out your plan so it’s clear and committed. Having a strategy improves focus and reduces stress during the exam.

Day 5: Light Review and Strategic Confidence Boost

On Day 5, you should start transitioning to a lighter workload. This day is about confidence, calm, and clarity.

Morning: Final Section Practice

If you feel strong and alert in the morning, take one more timed section — preferably your second-weakest — to keep your skills fresh. Do not exceed 35–40 minutes for this session.

Score it, analyze errors, and update your error log one last time. You are not trying to “improve” significantly at this point — you’re simply reinforcing what you already know.

Midday: Review Materials and Flashcards

Spend 60–90 minutes going through the most important materials:

• Review a small set of grammar and punctuation rules

• Skim notes on reading strategies (e.g., tone, inference, main idea)

• Review math formulas with a few example problems

• Look at key data interpretation strategies for science

At this point, you should recognize familiar patterns and feel increasingly comfortable with the content.

Afternoon: Build Mental Strength

Spend time doing things that help you feel focused, positive, and relaxed:

• Take a walk or do light exercise

• Meditate or use a breathing app for 10 minutes

• Read something enjoyable that’s not ACT-related

• Talk to a friend or family member about your progress

Avoid negative self-talk or last-minute panicking. You’ve put in the work, and now your brain needs rest to perform its best.

Evening: Prepare for the Day Before the Test

Use the evening of Day 5 to prepare for Day 6, when you’ll be organizing materials and finalizing logistics. You don’t need to cram. Instead:

• Tidy up your study space

• Put your test-day checklist on paper

• Set an early alarm for Day 6

• Go to bed at your ACT-time bedtime (adjusted bedtime from earlier in the week)

Getting your body used to waking up early will help reduce fatigue on test day.

Common Challenges on Days 4 and 5

As the test nears, some students experience increased stress, burnout, or doubt. Here are a few ways to deal with these challenges:

Challenge: Fear That You Haven’t Done Enough

It’s easy to feel like there’s more to study. However, if you’ve followed this plan, you’ve built a solid foundation. Focus now on trusting your preparation instead of chasing perfection.

Challenge: Feeling Overwhelmed or Burnt Out

If you feel mentally exhausted, scale back your review. Do light review instead of drills. Watch short videos on ACT strategies. Walk away from the test for a few hours if needed. This is a sign to shift into mental recovery mode.

Challenge: Doubting Your Abilities

Remind yourself of the work you’ve put in. Revisit your error log and look at how many areas you’ve improved. Go back and solve questions you got wrong on Day 1 that you can now answer confidently. This is evidence of progress.

Tips to Strengthen Confidence

• Write down three things you did well in your preparation.

• Look at one of your early practice tests and see how far you’ve come.

• Remind yourself that no one gets every question right — success is about doing your personal best.

• Plan a post-test reward — something to look forward to after test day.

Sleep and Nutrition

On both Days 4 and 5, stick with your early bedtime. Eat meals that are high in protein and fiber to keep your energy stable. Avoid excessive sugar, caffeine, and junk food that can disrupt sleep or cause crashes.

Sleep is now one of the most important parts of your preparation. It helps your brain store and recall information, increases alertness, and improves emotional balance.

Final Preparations and Test Day Success (Days 6–7)

Day 6: Preparing for the Exam Logistically and Mentally

The day before the ACT is not for cramming. You’ve done the hard work. Now your focus should shift to logistics, relaxation, and confidence building. Your goal is to make Day 7 run as smoothly as possible — without surprises, stress, or last-minute panic.

Gather Everything You Need for the ACT

Prepare all the items you’re allowed and required to bring to the testing center. Pack your bag early in the day so you’re not rushing around the night before.

ACT Test Day Essentials:

• Your ACT Admission Ticket (printed from your ACT.org account)

• A valid photo ID (driver’s license, school ID, or passport)

• Four sharpened #2 pencils (not mechanical)

• A quality eraser

• An approved calculator with fresh batteries

• A manual pencil sharpener

• A wristwatch (non-smart, non-alarm) to track time

• A water bottle

• Healthy snacks (granola bar, trail mix, fruit, etc.)

• Glasses, if you need them for reading

• Layers of clothing (hoodie, light jacket, etc., for temperature control)

Place everything in a backpack or tote bag near the front door or wherever you plan to leave from. Check the official ACT calculator policy one more time to ensure your calculator is permitted.

Review, But Lightly

If you really want to look over material, stick to light review:

• Go through flashcards you’ve already mastered

• Skim your notes or error log

• Revisit your formula sheet for math

• Review one or two common question types

Avoid starting anything new or testing yourself under pressure. At this point, reviewing should only serve as a confidence booster.

Eat a Balanced Dinner

What you eat the night before affects how well you sleep and how you feel in the morning. Choose a well-balanced meal that includes:

• Lean protein (chicken, tofu, beans)

• Whole grains (brown rice, whole wheat pasta)

• Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, spinach)

• Healthy fats (olive oil, avocado)

Avoid overly spicy, sugary, or heavy meals that might disrupt sleep or digestion.

Wind Down Early

In the evening, turn your attention away from the ACT. You’ve earned this time to relax and reset.

Some good evening activities:

• Take a warm shower or bath

• Read a favorite (non-academic) book

• Watch a light-hearted show or movie

• Journal your thoughts about the upcoming test

Avoid screen time for at least 30–45 minutes before bed. Blue light from phones and laptops can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep.

Go to Bed at a Reasonable Hour

Set your alarm to wake up early enough to get ready, eat, and travel without feeling rushed. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep. If you’re feeling nervous and have trouble falling asleep, don’t panic. Even lying in bed quietly helps your body and mind rest.

Tell yourself: “I’ve done what I can. Now it’s time to let it all work for me.”

Day 7: ACT Test Day

You’ve made it to test day. Now it’s time to trust your preparation, stay calm, and give it your best effort.

Wake Up with a Plan

Wake up with enough time to:

• Get dressed

• Eat a proper breakfast

• Check your bag again

• Use the restroom

• Travel to the test center calmly and safely

Do not hit snooze. Get out of bed and into a good rhythm for the day.

What to Eat for Breakfast

A balanced breakfast will help keep you full, energized, and mentally alert throughout the exam.

Good breakfast options:

• Eggs with toast and fruit

• Greek yogurt with granola and berries

• Oatmeal with nuts and banana

• Whole grain waffles with peanut butter

Drink water, but not so much that you’ll be uncomfortable. Avoid sugary cereals, energy drinks, or anything new you’ve never eaten before.

If you normally drink coffee, it’s okay to have a small cup. If you don’t, this is not the day to try it.

Get to the Test Center Early

Plan to arrive at your test center at least 30 minutes early. The testing staff will begin check-in and seat students around 8:00 AM, and late arrivals will not be admitted.

Before you leave home:

• Check for road closures or traffic delays

• Verify you have your ID and admission ticket

• Use the restroom

If you arrive early, use the time to do deep breathing or review one or two flashcards — but avoid trying to study anything major.

At the Testing Center

You’ll be seated and given instructions before the test begins. Phones must be turned off and stored away. Listen carefully to the proctor’s directions.

Once the test begins:

• Manage your time section by section

• Don’t get stuck on a single question — move on and return if time allows

• Use process of elimination when unsure

• Fill in every answer — there’s no penalty for guessing

You’ll get one 10-minute break between the Math and Reading sections. Use this time to:

• Stretch your legs

• Drink water

• Eat a small snack

• Re-center your thoughts

Tips for Staying Focused During the ACT

• Use your watch to keep track of time — know how long you can spend per passage or question

• If you start to feel anxious, pause, close your eyes, and take three deep breaths

• Remind yourself: “I’m ready. I’ve practiced. I can handle this.”

• Keep moving forward — don’t dwell on any one mistake or question

If your test includes the optional writing section, conserve some energy for this final task. Outline your response clearly, use examples, and manage your time to write and revise.

After the Test

Once the test is over:

• Take a moment to breathe and relax — you did it

• Don’t obsess over your answers or try to predict your score

• Go enjoy your day — celebrate the effort you’ve put in

Your ACT score will typically be available online 2–8 weeks after your test date. During that time, focus on school, college applications, and other goals.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for the ACT in a week is challenging, but entirely possible. With a focused plan, daily review, healthy habits, and mental preparation, you can enter the test room with confidence.

This final week isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing what you know, staying calm, and making smart choices under pressure.

No matter what your score turns out to be, remember this: taking the ACT is only one step in a long academic journey. What matters more is your dedication, growth, and persistence — qualities that go far beyond any standardized test.

Good luck — you’ve got this.