ACT Math

A comprehensive course covering the essential math concepts and strategies needed to excel on the ACT.

Numbers and OperationsAlgebraic Expressions and EquationsGeometry Basics
Functions and GraphsProbability and StatisticsQuadratic Equations and Polynomials
Math in Personal FinanceGeometry in Real LifeStatistics in Everyday Decisions
Time Management on the ACTPlug-In and Backsolving
Numbers and Operatio...Algebraic Expression...Geometry BasicsFunctions and GraphsProbability and Stat...Quadratic Equations ...Math in Personal Fin...Geometry in Real Lif...Statistics in Everyd...Time Management on t...Plug-In and Backsolv...
Study Strategies

Plug-In and Backsolving

Smart Shortcuts

Some ACT problems can be solved faster by plugging in numbers or working backwards from the answer choices.

Plugging In

  • Choose easy numbers for variables to test the problem.
  • Helps when variables make a question confusing.

Backsolving

  • Start with the answer choices and see which one fits.
  • Saves time and reduces errors on certain problems.

When to Use

Try these strategies when you see variables in the answer choices or word problems with unknowns.

Examples

  • If a question says 'x is an even number,' try plugging in 2 or 4 for x.

  • Work backwards from answer B to see if it satisfies the equation.

Plug-In and Backsolving - ACT Math Content | Practice Hub