The ACT English section (75 questions, 45 minutes) focuses on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills—things you can study systematically. The Reading section tests comprehension and inference on unfamiliar passages. Most students find English more manageable since the rules are concrete and learnable, while Reading requires faster processing and stronger inference skills. A tutor can help you master English grammar rules while developing the reading strategies you need for the comprehension section.

ACT English gives you less than 30 seconds per question, which feels rushed if you're not strategic. The best approach is to read the passage quickly for context, then tackle questions in order—many don't require deep reading comprehension. A tutor can teach you to recognize question types instantly (grammar vs. rhetorical) so you know which ones need careful analysis versus quick elimination. Practice tests help you build speed while maintaining accuracy, and learning which questions to skip temporarily can prevent anxiety-driven mistakes.

Most students stumble on three things: (1) comma rules and punctuation—especially when sentences are complex, (2) verb tense and subject-verb agreement in tricky passages, and (3) rhetorical questions that ask 'which revision best accomplishes X?' rather than testing grammar. Identifying which of these trips you up requires reviewing your practice test errors. A tutor can analyze your specific error patterns and create targeted drills so you stop repeating the same mistakes across multiple tests.

Most students benefit from 6-12 weeks of consistent preparation, with 3-5 hours per week producing solid results. If you're aiming for a significant score boost or starting significantly below your target, 12+ weeks allows time for deeper skill-building and multiple practice tests. Consistency matters more than intensity—studying 1 hour daily is more effective than cramming 5 hours on weekends. A tutor can build a customized study schedule based on your current score, timeline, and target, adjusting as you progress.

Test anxiety often stems from uncertainty about grammar rules or whether you're making the right choice. The antidote is confidence through familiarity—drilling practice problems until rule applications become automatic, and taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions to build comfort. Many students also benefit from mental strategies: reading the question before the passage (not after), trusting your first instinct on grammar rules, and skipping difficult questions to return later with fresh eyes. A tutor can coach you through both the skill-building and the mindset work needed to stay calm on test day.

Varsity Tutors connects Denver students with expert tutors who specialize in ACT English preparation. You'll get matched with someone familiar with ACT format, scoring, and the specific challenges students face on the English section. Whether you need help with grammar fundamentals, test-taking strategy, or building speed and accuracy, a tutor can provide personalized 1-on-1 instruction tailored to your goals and timeline. Getting started is straightforward—just share your current score and target, and we'll help you find the right match.