The ACT Reading section gives you 35 minutes to read four passages and answer 40 questions—roughly 8-9 minutes per passage. Many students try to read every word, which eats up time and doesn't improve accuracy. More effective strategies include previewing questions before reading, focusing on the main idea and structure rather than details, and knowing when to skip difficult questions to maximize points. Tutors can help you practice these techniques on real ACT passages so pacing becomes automatic on test day.

ACT Reading questions focus on main idea, inference, vocabulary in context, author's tone, and detail comprehension. The hardest questions are typically inference and purpose questions, which require understanding the author's intent rather than just finding facts. Many Chicago students also struggle with questions about tone and rhetorical techniques, especially in the paired humanities passages. Working with a tutor on question format patterns helps you recognize what each question is really asking, even when the wording is tricky.

Taking full, timed practice tests every 1-2 weeks helps you build stamina and identify patterns in your mistakes. However, the quality of your analysis after each test matters more than the quantity—rushing through practice tests without reviewing your errors wastes time. Between full tests, practicing individual passages under timed conditions is more efficient for building speed and strategy. A tutor can help you create a structured study schedule that balances full practice tests with targeted drills on your weaker question types.

Test anxiety on ACT Reading often stems from time pressure and fear of running out of time before finishing. Building confidence through repeated practice with timed passages desensitizes you to the pressure—you literally train your brain to stay calm under constraints. Some students also benefit from having a "backup plan," like knowing which questions to prioritize or skip if time runs short. Tutors can help you develop pre-test routines, teach breathing techniques during the exam, and ensure you've practiced enough that you trust your preparation.

The ACT Reading section focuses more on straightforward comprehension and author's purpose, while the SAT emphasizes data interpretation and evidence-based answers. ACT passages tend to be more narrative-driven, while the SAT includes more paired passages and graphs. If you're preparing for the ACT specifically, your study materials should use ACT passages and question formats—mixing in SAT prep can actually slow you down. For students in Chicago preparing for college applications, working with tutors who know both tests can help you decide which exam suits your strengths better.

Look for tutors who have strong knowledge of ACT Reading specifically—test prep requires understanding the exact question formats, timing constraints, and scoring system. It's helpful when a tutor can identify your specific weaknesses quickly (vocabulary, inference, pacing) rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. Experience teaching other Chicago high school students is valuable too, as tutors understand local school schedules and testing deadlines. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors experienced in ACT Reading preparation who can create a personalized study plan based on your diagnostic scores.