The ACT is a fast-paced exam that requires strong time management skills. With strict time limits for each section, many test-takers struggle to finish on time. However, with the right pacing strategies, you can improve your efficiency and maximize your score. This guide will break down the best approaches to help you stay on track and complete every section within the allotted time.
Understanding ACT Timing
Before diving into strategies, it’s essential to understand how much time you have per question in each section:
English: 50 questions in 35 minutes (about 42 seconds per question)
Math: 45 questions in 50 minutes (about 1 minute and 7 seconds per question)
Reading: 36 questions in 40 minutes (about 1 minute and 7 seconds per question)
Science (Optional): 40 questions in 40 minutes (1 minute per question)
The Writing (Essay) section, if taken, is 40 minutes long. While pacing matters here too, it’s more about structuring your response effectively rather than answering within seconds.
ACT English Pacing Strategies
The English section consists of five passages with grammar, punctuation, and rhetorical skills questions. Since you have 35 minutes for 50 questions, you need to move quickly.
Strategy 1: Spend About 7 Minutes Per Passage
With five passages, allocating 7 minutes per passage ensures steady progress. If a question is too time-consuming, make an educated guess and move on.
Strategy 2: Focus on Simplicity
The ACT prefers concise and clear answers. If one choice is significantly shorter than the others, it is often correct.
Strategy 3: Answer as You Read
Don’t read an entire passage before answering questions. Work through the text and questions simultaneously to save time.
Strategy 4: Skip and Return
If you’re stuck between two answers, mark it and return later. Don’t waste too much time on a single question.
ACT Math Pacing Strategies
The Math section gives you 50 minutes for 45 questions, but not all questions are equal in difficulty.
Strategy 1: Use the “25-15-10” Rule
Spend 25 minutes on the first 25 questions (easier problems).
Spend 15 minutes on the next 15 questions (moderate difficulty).
Spend 10 minutes on the last 5 questions (harder problems).
Strategy 2: Keep Moving Forward
If a question is taking too long, don’t dwell on it—skip it and come back later. Since the ACT doesn’t penalize for wrong answers, make sure to guess if you’re unsure.
Strategy 3: Use Smart Shortcuts
- Try plugging in answer choices for algebra problems to save time.
- Estimate values instead of solving complex calculations in full.
- Memorize key formulas like area, volume, and the Pythagorean theorem to speed up problem-solving.
Strategy 4: Stay Organized
Messy work can lead to mistakes. Keep your calculations neat by using scratch paper or marking your test booklet clearly to avoid errors.
ACT Reading Pacing Strategies
The Reading section consists of four passages with 36 questions in 40 minutes. That means 10 minutes per passage.
Strategy 1: Read Strategically
Skim First: Get the main idea quickly.
Underline Key Points: Mark important names, dates, and shifts in the passage.
Answer Main Idea Questions First: These are often easier and help with context.
Strategy 2: Don’t Overanalyze
ACT reading questions have direct answers based on the passage. Avoid overthinking or making assumptions beyond what is stated.
Strategy 3: Save the Toughest Passage for Last
If one passage type (e.g., Prose Fiction) is harder for you, do it last so you don’t waste time.
Strategy 4: Look at Questions Before Reading
Some test-takers find it helpful to skim the questions first to know what details to look for in the passage.
ACT Science Pacing Strategies (Optional Section)
The Science section also has 40 questions in 40 minutes, so time management is critical.
Strategy 1: Prioritize Data Over Text
Most questions are based on graphs, charts, and tables. Focus on these first rather than reading long paragraphs.
Strategy 2: Skim Passages Quickly
Instead of reading every word, scan for main ideas and figure out what type of data is presented.
Strategy 3: Answer Questions in a Logical Order
Start with factual questions (based directly on data).
Then move to trend/pattern questions (which require interpretation).
Save experimental design or conflicting viewpoint questions for last.
Strategy 4: Use Process of Elimination
If two answers seem correct, reread carefully to eliminate the one that doesn’t match the passage data exactly.
ACT Essay Pacing Strategies (Optional Section)
If you take the optional Writing section, you’ll have 40 minutes to analyze a given prompt and write an essay.
✅ Strategy 1: Plan for 5-7 Minutes Outline your essay before writing. A strong structure (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion) is key.
✅ Strategy 2: Stick to a Clear Argument Make sure your perspective is clear from the beginning. Use evidence from the prompt to support your points.
✅ Strategy 3: Leave 2-3 Minutes for Proofreading Errors in grammar or clarity can cost points. A quick review at the end can help fix mistakes.
ACT Pacing Tips
✔️ Bring a Watch – Use a simple, non-smart watch to keep track of time, as some testing rooms may not have a visible clock.
✔️ Practice with a Timer – Simulate real test conditions by taking full-length, timed practice exams to improve speed and endurance.
✔️ Bubble Efficiently – Instead of filling in each answer one by one, mark them in your test booklet and transfer them in groups (after a passage or page) to save time.
✔️ Make Educated Guesses – Since there’s no penalty for incorrect answers, never leave a question blank. Rule out obvious wrong choices and take your best guess.
✔️ Stay Focused and Keep Going – If you start feeling overwhelmed, remind yourself of your preparation. Stay calm and concentrate on the next question.
Conclusion
Finishing every section of the ACT on time is challenging but achievable with the right pacing strategies. By practicing efficient time management, focusing on high-yield strategies, and staying calm under pressure, you can improve your performance and maximize your ACT score.
Want to boost your ACT prep? Consider taking timed practice tests and refining your pacing techniques before test day!