The ACT Science section tests your ability to interpret data, read graphs, and reason scientifically—not memorized science facts. You'll encounter 40 questions in 35 minutes across three question types: data representation, research summaries, and conflicting viewpoints. This section is unique to the ACT and trips up many students because it requires speed and careful reading of charts and tables. Many students find this section improves dramatically with focused practice on data interpretation strategies.

Most Columbia students benefit from starting ACT prep in the spring of junior year or early senior year, giving yourself 3-4 months before your target test date. If you're aiming for a significant score improvement (5+ points), plan for 8-12 weeks of consistent study. The timeline depends on your starting score and goals—students starting from a 20 might need more time than those starting from a 26. A tutor can assess where you are now and create a personalized timeline that fits your college application deadlines.

Most students see improvements of 2-4 points with focused preparation, though gains depend on your starting score and effort level. Students starting below 24 often see larger jumps (4-6 points) because there are more foundational skills to strengthen, while students already scoring 30+ typically see smaller but meaningful gains. The key is identifying your specific weak areas—whether that's pacing on the Math section, data interpretation on Science, or reading comprehension—and targeting those systematically. Personalized instruction helps you avoid wasting time on skills you've already mastered.

Both tests are widely accepted at South Carolina colleges, though the ACT has gained popularity nationally in recent years. Most South Carolina universities, including Clemson and USC, accept both tests equally and don't favor one over the other. The choice often comes down to which test plays to your strengths—some students prefer the ACT's straightforward format and faster pacing, while others do better with the SAT's structure. Many Columbia students take a practice version of each test to see which one suits their test-taking style before committing to prep.

The ACT moves fast—you have about 2 minutes per question on average, which is quicker than the SAT. Success comes down to knowing your pacing strategy for each section: English (45 sec/question), Math (60 sec/question), Reading (50 sec/passage), and Science (50 sec/passage). Many students struggle because they spend too long on difficult questions instead of moving forward and coming back later. A tutor can help you develop section-specific strategies and practice under timed conditions so pacing becomes automatic on test day.

ACT scores are a major factor in merit scholarship decisions at most South Carolina universities. For example, a 28+ composite typically qualifies for competitive merit aid at USC and Clemson, while a 32+ opens access to top-tier scholarships. Many South Carolina schools use automatic scholarship formulas tied to ACT scores and GPA, so even a 1-2 point improvement can move you into a higher scholarship tier and potentially save thousands annually. Since merit scholarships can significantly reduce college costs, it's worth investing in ACT prep if you're targeting competitive schools.

Most Columbia students should skip the optional Writing section unless a specific college requires it—and very few do anymore. Check your target colleges' websites to confirm, but the vast majority of South Carolina universities don't require or even look at the ACT Writing score. Skipping Writing saves you 40 minutes on test day and lets you focus your energy on the four main sections that actually affect your composite score. If you do need Writing, a tutor can help you develop a quick essay strategy, but it's rarely worth the extra time and cost.