Myths About the ACT Test
All through high school, the students hear about how the ACT could make or break them. It is literally on every student’s mind, especially during their junior and senior years. It is thought that one outstanding score on the ACT could send them to their dream college and one poor score could have them attending the local junior college instead (not that there is anything wrong with that).
It is time to clear up some of the myths about the ACT so perhaps the students do not feel such pressure when taking the standardized exam. Separating the myths from the facts should help everyone realize just what to expect when taking the test.
Myth: You Can’t Take the ACT Until Junior Year
While it seems like most students first take the ACT during the second half of their junior year, they can actually take it earlier if they wanted. In fact, it would be a good strategy to take it during the sophomore year in high school as most of the ACT subject content has been covered by then in classes. Plus, if you don’t do so hot, you have more opportunities to take the exam later on. And if you do score well when you take it as a sophomore, then you don’t have to worry about it during your last couple of years in high school. It is a win-win situation.
Myth: If I Ace the ACT, I Can Get into Any College I Want
If you do score a perfect 36 on the ACT, you definitely deserve congratulations. Less than 0.2 percent earn a perfect score on the exam. However, that won’t guarantee you getting into your dream college. Schools will also look at your grades in high school, attendance, extracurriculars, behavior, and things of that nature. Still, with that said, acing the test certainly would be a huge feather in your cap.
Myth: The ACT Is Easier Than the SAT
I remember this myth from back when I was in high school. The truth is that the ACT isn’t easier or harder than the SAT. The SAT does have about 50 less questions than the ACT, but it also takes longer to finish. But when it comes down to it, both standardized exams are very similar and if there was one easier than the other, everyone would definitely know about it.
Myth: There Is No Use Studying for the ACT
Many students will mistakenly think that they can’t study for the ACT. They believe you will either know the answers or you won’t. But the ACT is a totally coachable exam. With the right tutoring letting you know what to expect, you can improve your score immensely. In fact, iAchieve can help you earn a great score on the ACT. We have tutors that specialize in assisting students in getting the best score they possibly can.
Myth: Leave the Question Blank on the ACT If You Don’t Know the Answer
There is absolutely no harm in taking a guess on the questions you aren’t sure about. Leaving the question unanswered on the ACT is scored the same as if you got the question wrong. Instead of throwing up the white flag, go ahead and take as many guesses as you want. However, narrow it down a bit. You will be presented with a one in four chance of getting it right. Improve your odds by eliminating the obviously wrong answers first.
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