Lisa Zimmer Hatch, MA, and Scott A. Hatch, JD, have been helping students excel on standardized tests since 1987. They have written curricula and taught students internationally through live lectures, online forums, DVDs, and independent study, and have authored numerous test-prep texts.

• Start Here 1About This Book 1Foolish Assumptions 1Icons Used in This Book 2Where to Go from Here 2Block 1: Act Overview in 20 Minutes 3Registering for the ACT 3Choosing when to take the test 4Deciding whether to take the writing test 5Asking for accommodations or English learner supports 5Requesting a fee waiver 5Signing up for your test 6Identifying What to Bring to the Test 6Knowing What to Expect During the Test 7Exam room rules 8The order, topics, and time for each section 8What the ACT expects you to know 9Identifying Strategies for Test-Taking Success 10Managing your time 10Keeping track of your answers 11Coping with stress and anxiety 11Eliminating answers 12Reading actively to stay focused 12Reviewing your responses 12Understanding Your Score 12Guessing for points to maximize your score 12Interpreting your overall score 13Repeating the test to improve your score 14Block 2: Preparing for the Test! 17Punctuating the English Test 17Understanding the question types 18Reviewing grammar and usage 18Sizing Up the Math Test 23Understanding the test format 23Recognizing number basics 24Reviewing geometry and trig 34Solving algebraic equations and more 39Comprehending the Reading Test 47Understanding the topics 48Identifying the question types 48Peering into the Science Test 50Classifying passage format 50Analyzing tables, graphics, and diagrams 51Organizing Your Writing Test Essay 52Examining the prompt and creating a thesis 52Demonstrating key writing skills 53Block 3: Working Through Some Practice Questions 55English Practice Questions 55Math Practice Questions 61Reading Practice Questions 67Science Practice Questions 73Passage 73Initial Analysis 74Questions 74Writing Practice Question 79Block 4: Taking a (Shortened) Practice Test 83Answer Sheet 84English Test 86Mathematics Test 92Reading Test 97Science Test 103Writing Test 109Answers and Explanations 110English Test 110Mathematics Test 116Reading Test 122Science Test 125Writing Test 128Sample response 129Block 5: Ten Tips for the Night Before Your Test 131Know Your Time-Management Strategies 131Review Strategies for Analyzing and Answering Questions 132Review Your Practice Test Materials 132Practice Your Stress-Coping Strategies 132Plan for Arriving on Time 132Lay Out Comfortable Clothes 133Have Your Picture ID and Admission Ticket Ready 133Check Your Calculator and Batteries 133Visualize Success! 133Get a Good Night’s Sleep 133Index 135