Timing is one of the biggest challenges on the ACT because each section has strict time limits—you have just 35 minutes for Reading with five passages. Effective strategies include reading the questions first to know what to look for, skipping difficult passages initially, and practicing with a timer to build speed without sacrificing accuracy. A tutor can help you develop a personalized pacing strategy based on your reading style and identify which question types slow you down most.

Many students find Reading the most challenging because it requires both speed and comprehension—you can't just solve it like a math problem. During a 4-week prep program, you can focus extra time on reading strategies like active annotation, identifying main ideas quickly, and practicing inference questions. Tutors can also help you understand why you're missing questions—whether it's due to comprehension, timing, or misreading what the question asks—so you can address the real problem rather than just reading faster.

Taking at least 3-4 full-length practice tests during a 4-week program gives you valuable data about your performance and helps build test-day stamina. The first test establishes your baseline, middle tests let you track progress on specific sections, and a final test simulates test-day conditions. Between tests, focus on reviewing mistakes and practicing targeted skills rather than just taking more tests—understanding why you missed a question matters far more than the volume of practice.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unfamiliar with the test format. A structured 4-week prep program reduces anxiety by demystifying the ACT—you'll learn exactly what to expect, practice under timed conditions repeatedly, and see measurable progress. Additionally, tutors can teach you calming techniques, help you develop a realistic study plan you can stick to, and remind you that the ACT is a skill you can improve with practice, just like any other skill.

Start by taking a full-length practice test and analyzing your results by section and question type—for example, you might discover you're missing most function questions in Math or inference questions in Reading. A tutor can help you dig deeper to understand whether you're missing questions due to knowledge gaps, careless mistakes, or timing issues. Once you've identified the root cause, you can target your study time effectively rather than reviewing everything equally.

The ACT Science section tests your ability to read data and understand scientific reasoning more than memorized science facts. The key is learning to quickly locate information in graphs, tables, and passages, then answer questions based on that data. Many students benefit from practicing the three main question types (data representation, research summaries, and conflicting viewpoints) and developing a consistent strategy for each—whether that's reading the passage first or jumping straight to the questions.

Varsity Tutors connects students in Houston with expert tutors who specialize in ACT prep and can tailor instruction to your needs. When you get matched with a tutor, you can discuss your target score, which sections give you the most trouble, and your learning style so they can create a personalized 4-week plan. Many tutors will start with a diagnostic test to pinpoint exactly where you need the most help, ensuring your prep time is spent efficiently.