Free ACT Exam Flashcards
Memorize 50 essential terms and definitions for the ACT (American College Testing). See the term, recall the definition, then flip to check yourself.
Subject-Verb Agreement
A singular subject requires a singular verb, and a plural subject requires a plural verb. Watch for tricky phrases between the subject and verb that might confuse you. Example: 'The group of students IS studying' (not 'are') because 'group' is the singular subject.
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About These ACT Flashcards
These 50 flashcards are designed to help you memorize key terms and definitions for the ACT (American College Testing). Each card shows a term on the front and its definition on the back—the classic flashcard format for vocabulary memorization. Use these alongside our practice questions to build both recall and comprehension.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good ACT score in 2026?
ACT scores range from 1-36. The national average composite score is approximately 20.8. A score of 24+ (75th percentile) is competitive for many state universities. Scores of 30+ (95th percentile) are competitive for highly selective schools. Top-tier universities typically admit students with 33-36 scores. Your target should be at or above your target schools' middle 50% score ranges.
What's the difference between the ACT and SAT?
The ACT has 4 sections (English, Math, Reading, Science) plus optional Writing, totaling 2h 55m. The SAT has 2 sections (Reading/Writing, Math) in 2h 14m with adaptive testing. The ACT includes a Science section testing data interpretation and reasoning; the SAT doesn't. ACT questions have faster pacing (less time per question). Both are accepted by all US colleges. Take practice tests to see which format suits your strengths.
How is the ACT scored?
Each ACT section (English, Math, Reading, Science) is scored 1-36. Your composite score is the average of all four sections, rounded to the nearest whole number. There's no penalty for wrong answers. The optional Writing section is scored separately (2-12) and doesn't affect your composite. Scores are typically available 2-8 weeks after testing. ACT superscoring takes your highest section scores across multiple test dates.
How many times can I take the ACT?
You can take the ACT up to 12 times total. The test is offered 7 times per year (September, October, December, February, April, June, July). Each attempt costs $68 without Writing or $93 with Writing. ACT offers a superscore option where colleges can consider your highest section scores across multiple test dates. Many students take it 2-3 times and see score improvements with additional preparation.
What is the ACT Science section?
The ACT Science section has 40 questions in 35 minutes, testing scientific reasoning rather than memorized facts. You'll interpret data from graphs, tables, and research summaries. Topics include biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth science, but you don't need advanced knowledge - the information is provided. This section tests your ability to analyze scientific information, evaluate experiments, and draw conclusions from data.
How long should I study for the ACT?
Most students need 40-100 hours of preparation over 2-4 months. Students aiming for modest improvements (1-3 points) may need 20-40 hours, while those targeting significant gains (4+ points) should plan 60-100+ hours. The ACT's fast pacing requires practice with timed sections. Focus on your weakest sections first, as improving a low score has more impact on your composite than raising an already strong section.