Your ACT Prep Checklist & Tips for 2023

Are you planning to take the ACT this year? Are you worried about how to prepare for it to get your best score? Then you’ve come to the right place!

Preparing for the ACT for the first time can seem challenging and scary. That’s why we have created the ultimate ACT prep checklist, not just to help you prepare for your test but also to give it your best shot. With the proper preparation and practice, you can improve your chances of getting a high score and gaining admission to the college of your dreams.

This article contains important information to help you prepare for the ACT, including test dates, preparation tips, progress assessment, and a list of test-day essentials.

In this blog post, we’ll cover:

• ACT dates for 2023
• How to prepare for your ACT
• How to assess your progress
• Things you should (and should not) carry on test day

If you plan to take the SAT this year, read this blog to help prepare for it.

ACT Dates For 2023

The first thing you need to do is to make sure you’re aware of the test dates for this year. The ACT is offered seven times a year, usually on Saturdays. Here are the ACT dates for 2023:

• February 11th, 2023
• April 8th, 2023
• June 10th, 2023
• July 15th, 2023
• September 9th, 2023
• October 28th, 2023
• December 9th, 2023

The registration deadlines for the ACT usually fall about a month before the test date. However, be sure to register for the test at least a few weeks in advance, as spots can fill up quickly.

You can start putting together a study plan by working backward from the date you have chosen to take the test. Once you have finalized a date, here’s how you can create an effective ACT study plan.

How To Prepare For The ACT

Unlike the SAT, the ACT covers four subject areas – English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning. That’s why preparing for the ACT exam requires time, effort, commitment, and a solid study plan. Here are a few essential pointers to get you started:

1. Start Early

Give yourself a reasonable amount of time to prepare. As this test helps determine which college you will go to, it’s imperative that you don’t take this test in a rush. Ideally, you should give yourself at least three to six months for preparation.

2. Understand the Test Format

Familiarize yourself with the format of the test, the different sections, the scores allotted for each section, the types of questions asked, etc. Knowing what to expect on the day of the test will ensure that there are no last-minute surprises. It will also help you strategize your study plan in a way that suits you best.

3. Take a Practice Test

Take many practice tests during your prep. By taking practice tests, you can get an idea of where you stand and which areas are your strengths and weaknesses. You can plan your study schedule in a way that helps you know and overcome your weak areas and maintain your strong areas. You may find one section or a type of question difficult or time-consuming. Practicing that multiple times can help you get better at it.

4. Develop a Study Plan

Once you know where you stand with regard to the test format and syllabus, you can create a study plan that covers all the subject areas and gives you enough time to practice. Allot more time for areas that need improvement or that seem more challenging than others. Then move to areas that are your strength.

5. Manage Your Time

Create a study schedule that works for you. Incorporate a dedicated study time in your daily schedule and follow it through. Note that the ACT is a timed test. So, make sure you time yourself when taking practice tests to know which sections of the test take more time than others. Practice those more and aim to finish your test on time. This part is critical because you can know all the answers to the test, but you should also have enough time to write them.

6. Ask for Help

If the test prep gets overwhelming or if you think you need extra help, consider creating a study group with your peers, working with a tutor, or enrolling in a test prep course. Studying with your peers can help build confidence, drive, and help you all feel accountable. There are other options readily available today. Find your nearest ACT prep tutor or a test prep course that is highly recommended. Tutors will be able to guide you in the best way and ensure that you score desirably.

7. Take Breaks

Don’t forget to take breaks in between your prep time. It’s important to take ample breaks during your preparation to avoid burnout. Take a day off every week to recharge and relax. Ensure you don’t create an unrealistic study plan that is hard to keep up with. Instead, include ample playtime or break time to recharge yourself every now and then.

8. Use Your Study Material

When you are preparing for your ACT, you must make use of all the different types of prep material that are available. Use a combination of study materials, such as textbooks, guidebooks, online resources, practice tests, ACT prep courses, and review courses to improve your knowledge and skills.

Don’t forget to check whether you meet the test requirements and confirm that you have registered online. You should receive your admission ticket once you register for the test. While you would likely receive an email or any other type of notification in case there are any changes, it’s always a good idea to check your test center’s location and test timing to make sure there are no last-minute closings or exam delays.

How To Access Your Progress

Once your ACT prep is in the running, you may want to assess your progress to ensure that you’re on track.

• Take practice tests regularly to help you track your overall progress throughout your prep time.
• Track your time and see whether you can finish the test in the allotted time. If not, see which sections take up more time.
• Review your mistakes and identify patterns to avoid making the same errors in the future.
• Keep track of your study hours, practice test scores, and other metrics to see how far you’ve come.
• Seek feedback from teachers, tutors, or peers to identify areas where you need to improve and get suggestions.
• Adjust your study plan based on your progress to ensure you are making the most of your study time.
  While these are the things you should do to prepare for your ACT, here are some things you should avoid doing:

• Last-Minute Cramming

Last-minute studying can sometimes prove to be helpful, let’s say, for class tests. But the ACTs are tests that help you decide your future and, therefore, have much at stake. Along with your syllabus, it also tests your time management and dedication. Therefore, take that time to rest.

• Pulling an All-Nighter Before the Exam

Pulling an all-nighter the night before the exam can make you grumpy and irritable on the test day. Rest plays a critical role in memory and recall, making sleep one of the most important things you can do the night before the big test. Try to get at least eight hours of sleep.

Items You Should Bring On The Day Of The Test

On test day, make sure you have everything you need without taking unnecessary items that might distract you or delay the check-in process.

• A printout of your admission ticket
• A valid photo ID
• A face mask, just in case
• Several sharpened No. 2 pencils
• An eraser
• A calculator (check the ACT website for a list of approved calculators)
• Watch (without an audible alarm)

Items You Cannot Bring to the Testing Center

• Any electronic devices (e.g., cell phones, tablets, smartwatches)
• Food or drinks (unless you have a medical condition that requires them)
• Books, notes, or scratch paper (the testing center will provide these)
• Highlighters, colored pens or pencils, or correction fluid
• Backpacks or bags

Double-check with the testing center to see their exact list of prohibited items.

On Test Day

Here are some tips to help you arrive at the testing center feeling refreshed, prepared, and calm.

• Eating a nutritious and balanced breakfast before heading to the exam center ensures your brain and body have the energy needed to carry you through hours of test-taking.
• Wearing comfortable clothes can help you feel more relaxed and at ease throughout the 3-3.5 hours of the test. Bringing a jacket to the test center is also a good idea.
• Arriving at the test center at least 30 minutes before the test time to avoid any unwanted delays in traffic or anything else. Being early also lets you check in, store personal belongings, and settle in before the exam.

Conclusion

Preparing for the ACT requires dedication and consistent effort. By following this checklist and committing to the process, you can be confident about your preparation and take the ACT with your best foot forward.

Remember to stay calm and focused on the test day, and don’t be afraid to seek help and guidance from your peers, teachers, or family. Good luck on your ACT journey!

Ready to take the ACT? Here’s the link to register online.