ACT Science is a reading-speed + pattern recognition section disguised as a lab practicum. Pacing beats “perfect understanding” of every graph.
1. Know your passage types
Data Representation → skim axes first. Research Summaries → read the experiment goal line, then jump to figures. Conflicting Viewpoints → read the question stem, then track who claims what with a two-letter label.
2. The 90-second rule (first pass)
If a set is not moving, flag and skip. Blind guessing five at the end hurts more than missing one hard set early with a calm return pass.
3. Do not read prose you will not be asked about
Most items point to specific figure elements. Let the question tell you whether you need the paragraph at all.
4. Practice with a strict bubble cadence
Every fourth question, check the clock. Adjust skimming depth — not accuracy of science knowledge.
ACT prep
Structured pacing and question-type drills: ACT prep (online).
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