Best ACT Prep Strategies for 2025
What Are the Most Effective ACT Prep Strategies in 2025?
With the ACT’s updated format and new scoring policies, students need smarter strategies—not just more study hours. Here’s how to prepare effectively for success.
The all-new, enhanced version of the ACT will be available for those taking the test digitally in April 2025, and on-paper in September 2025. The new format will also roll out for state and district testing beginning in Spring 2026. As this updated version of the ACT begins to replace the old format, it’s only natural to wonder how to best adapt to the changes. To set yourself up for success, it’s essential to factor these enhancements into your test prep strategy.
We’ve walked you through the 2025 ACT changes—now let’s focus on the best ways to prepare and maximize your score.
Know What to Expect:
Whenever a test update or redesign is announced, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the changes that have been made. If you’ve been using old practice tests to study, or have already taken another version of the test in the past, you may need to fine-tune your study methods and testing tactics based on changes to format, timing, and content.
Enhanced ACT Overview
The enhanced ACT aims to offer an improved testing experience for students. The official ACT website claims that the new version will offer greater flexibility and accessibility, and give students more time to answer each question. Here is a brief overview of how the enhanced ACT compares to the old version:
| Structure | Old ACT | Enhanced ACT |
|---|---|---|
| Core Test | English, Reading, Math, and Science | English, Reading, and Math |
| Optional Add-On Sections | Writing | Science and Writing |
| Total Question Count | 215 | 171 |
| Test Length | Around 3 Hours | Around 2 Hours |
| Individual Section Question Count | English: 75 Questions; 45 Minutes Reading: 40 Questions; 35 Minutes Math: 60 Questions; 60 Minutes Science: 40 Questions; 35 Minutes Writing: 1 Essay; 40 Minutes | English: 50 Questions; 35 Minutes Reading: 36 Questions; 40 Minutes Math: 45 Questions; 45 Minutes Science: 40 Questions; 40 Minutes Writing: 1 Essay; 40 Minutes |
| Scoring Scale | 1-36 | 1-36 |
Certain aspects of the ACT have not changed, such as the scoring scale. Both the composite score and individual sections (aside from Writing) are scored on the classic 1-36 point scale. The Writing section still features one essay question to be completed in 40 minutes, remains optional, and will be scored on a 1-12 point scale. Now, the Science section is also optional. As a whole, there are fewer total questions, and individual section lengths have been adjusted to allow for a less rigorous testing pace. What do these changes actually mean in practice?
Streamlined Core Test
Now that the core test consists of just three sections, each section accounts for a larger percentage of the composite score. In the past, for example, Math would have only accounted for 25% of the total score. It is now worth 33%.
On the plus side, with Science now optional, students who choose to take the core test only need to focus on three subject areas instead of four during test prep. Those who lack the time or interest to prepare for a Science section can now skip it altogether and focus their efforts elsewhere. Students can take advantage of these changes to the core test by focusing their study efforts and concentrating on a more targeted range of knowledge.
Reduced Test Length
Students who choose to take the new ACT without any add-ons will have a total testing time of just over two hours. That means that the ACT is now comparable to the SAT in terms of test length. The ACT used to be known for its longer testing time, which could prove more challenging for test-takers to complete. Students concerned about test length can now consider the ACT as a more manageable option.
Fewer Questions
Alongside a shorter testing time, test-takers will enjoy 44 fewer questions on the enhanced ACT. Students will also have more time to answer each question, compared to the old format. Reading passages will be shorter, and each Math question will have four answer choices instead of five. While students may be able to spend more time considering each question, a reduced question count means that each answer is more important. Accuracy is more important now than ever.
Decide Which Version is Right for You
With these enhancements, the ACT is now more customizable. Test-takers can choose from the following options: the core ACT, the ACT with Science, the ACT with Writing, or the ACT with Science and Writing. You should select the version that best aligns with your academic interests.
For example, if you’re aiming to major in biology or enter a pre-med program, you should take the ACT with Science to get a separate STEM score showcasing your scientific knowledge. If you’re interested in pursuing English or a writing-heavy degree, you might choose to add the Writing section to highlight your written communication and composition skills. The core ACT alone could be a better option if you would rather show off your general knowledge, haven’t decided on a specific major yet, or want a simplified testing experience.
The test is also available in digital or paper format, allowing students to choose the option that best suits their individual testing needs. You can try answering sample questions online and on paper to see which testing method you prefer.
Take an Updated Practice Test
Once you’ve decided which version of the ACT is right for you, you can move on to test prep. Practice tests offer many benefits, and can be especially helpful when you’re faced with a new format. You don’t want test day to be the first time you see what the test actually looks like and how you feel taking it. Here are some tips for making the most of practice tests:
Try Out the New Format: First, look for a practice test based on the new ACT format. Taking old versions could still be helpful to get a broader idea of what kinds of questions and content you’ll come across. If you want to get an accurate picture of pacing, however, your best bet is an updated practice test.
Set a Timer: Remember to give yourself that same amount of time for each section as you would have in a real testing session. You can also give yourself the same breaks as you would get on test day. This will give you a sense of how quickly you need to work to complete all the questions, and how your energy level and concentration feel as you move through each section of the test.
Make a Testing Schedule: Practice tests can be a great tool for gauging your test prep efforts. Taking one test right before test day isn’t the best way to make use of them. Instead, try taking a practice test before you start studying to identify areas of improvement and factors you can focus on in your study efforts. Then, you can take one once a month or so as you continue test prep to measure your progress. Don’t take the same test every time - try a few different versions to ensure you’re challenging yourself instead of answering the same questions each time.
Rely on Classic Test Prep Strategies
Certain test prep strategies are tried and true for a reason. While you should definitely bulk up on ACT-specific knowledge and familiarize yourself with the logistics of the enhanced ACT itself, your study efforts can be bolstered with classic test-taking tactics as well. Consider these methods as you develop an ACT game plan:
Start Early: It can be tempting to put off studying until the last minute, but it’s essential to avoid procrastinating. As a general rule, it’s recommended that students begin preparing for the ACT 3-6 months before test day. If you want to get your best score possible, simply studying the night before isn’t going to cut it. You can start off by reviewing for just 20 minutes a day a few times a week and work your way up from there.
Stay Consistent: It’s essential to get into a regular study routine. Studying several times a week for short periods is more effective than studying for an hour or two every other week. Regular review sessions boost information retention and help you sharpen key test-taking skills, including problem-solving, decision-making, and analytical thinking. Best of all, they eliminate the need for last-minute cramming, so you can get a good night’s sleep before your test, knowing that you’re as prepared as you can be.
Know Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Identifying the subjects and content areas you know best, and the ones that you could focus on more, will help guide your study efforts. You can use sample questions and practice tests to help pinpoint your strengths and weaknesses. Pay attention to what kinds of questions you find easier to answer, and which ones you spend more time on. This will help you determine which aspects of the ACT you should dedicate extra time to reviewing.
Develop a Personalized Testing Strategy: Getting ready for the ACT isn’t just about studying in the months beforehand. It’s also about developing a strategy for taking the test itself. There are many test-taking tips you can incorporate into your testing plan. Examples include looking over the entire test quickly before you begin, answering the easy questions first, carefully considering each multiple-choice option, and saving difficult passages or questions until the end of each section.
Working with an experienced ACT prep advisor can help you take your ACT review efforts to the next level. Whether you’re looking for support in developing a study routine, identifying your testing strengths, or finding the test-taking tactics that work best for you.
Final Takeaways
The enhanced ACT is shorter, more flexible, and more customizable than ever—but those changes also mean each section carries more weight, and prep needs to be more strategic. By understanding the new format, choosing the right version of the test, and practicing with updated materials, you can turn these changes into an advantage. With Ivy Bound’s proven ACT prep, you’ll get personalized guidance to adapt to the new ACT and put your best score forward.
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By leveraging these resources, you can approach the revised ACT with a strategic edge. Stay proactive, and remember that with the right support, success is within reach.