What Math Topics are Covered on the ACT?
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The ACT test is a big deal for high schoolers who are looking to apply to colleges, so it helps to give yourself plenty of time to prepare for it. Part of that preparation is knowing exactly what the topics are, how much time you have for each section, and drilling practice tests to learn key techniques for completing the activities.
This is especially true for math, as there is a variety of material covered in the exam. To help you get started on your test prep, here is a rundown of the ACT math topics that you’ll find on the exam, as well as a few tips for how to prepare for the test itself.
What Math Topics are Covered on the ACT?
So, what types of math are on the ACT exam? The purpose of this test is to assess the math skills that high school students should acquire by the time they start 12th grade. There are 60 ACT math questions that test takers have 60 minutes to complete, covering six different mathematical areas. The questions get progressively harder as you go through them, so the easiest questions that take the least amount of time are first.
Let’s take a look at what type of math is on the ACT by breaking it down in the table below.
ACT Math Breakdown
| Topic | Types of Questions | Number of Questions |
| Pre-Algebra | Multiple choice | 14 |
| Elementary Algebra | Multiple choice | 10 |
| Intermediate Algebra | Multiple choice | 9 |
| Coordinate Geometry | Multiple choice | 9 |
| Plane Geometry | Multiple choice | 14 |
| Trigonometry | Multiple choice | 4 |
Breaking Down the ACT Math Questions
There are six different sections on the math exam. Let’s take a look at what topics you can expect to find in each one, as well as what kinds of sample questions to expect and how to study for them.
1. Pre-Algebra (20%-25%)
- Proportions and ratios
- Absolute value
- Multiples, factors, and primes
- Number problems
- Mean, median, and mode
- Probability
- Exponents and roots
- Percents, fractions, and decimals
These questions test basic math skills. You’ll find word and multi-step problems, so take your time to read them carefully. Circle or underline key information so that you can quickly refer back.
2. Elementary Algebra (15%-20%)
- Writing and solving algebraic expressions
- Solving expressions with substitution
- Simplifying expressions
- Inequalities
- Multiplying binomials
Along with the intermediate algebra questions, this part of the test assesses your ability to write, simplify, and solve algebraic expressions and equations. You’ll need to use logic to solve these problems, so you should brush up on basic algebra skills and prepare by practicing sample questions from past exams.
Some things to brush up on are the FOIL method, converting a word problem into a linear equation, and factoring.
3. Intermediate Algebra (15%-20%)
- Functions
- Logarithms
- Systems of equations
- Quadratic equations
- matrices
Intermediate algebra is similar to the previous sections, but the questions get more difficult as you progress through the exam. As you make your study plan, make sure to review the quadratic formula and matrices. They are rarer topics, but you may see one or both of them on the test.
4. Coordinate Geometry (15%-20%)
- Slope
- Distance and midpoint
- Number lines
- Inequalities
- Graphing
- Equation of a line
- Parallel and perpendicular lines
Coordinate geometry is where you use a combination of skills from algebra and geometry, and use graphs to make calculations. In this branch of math, you study familiar shapes and use formulas to find properties like distance, slope, and midpoint. Be sure to review the properties of graphs and number lines, slope-intercept form, the formula for slope, and the X and Y-coordinate plane.
5. Plane Geometry (20%-25%)
- Properties of triangles
- Pythagorean Theorem
- Angles and lines
- Volume, perimeter, and area
Here, you need to demonstrate knowledge of flat shapes, especially triangles, and find properties like the area and perimeter. It’s possible you might need to find these properties on other shapes, though that’s rare. Review the names of all the types of lines and angles, as well as the Pythagorean Theorem.
6. Trigonometry (5%-10%)
- SOHCATOA
- Sines and cosines
- Angle of depression
- Radians
- Linear speed
This section is all about right triangles. You need to know SOHCAHTOA to solve trigonometry problems, but you should also review secant, cosecant, and cotangent.
7. Additional Math Concepts
- Probability
- Statistics
- Percentages
- Word problems
This isn’t a section, but there are some extra topics that you should review before the exam to be totally prepared. Know number and quantity to demonstrate knowledge of real and complex numbers, real and complex number systems, probability, and statistics. These questions can fall under any of the mentioned sections, even if they have a smaller chance of appearing or there is less focus on them.
Study Tips for the Math Section of the ACT
Start preparing early so that you give yourself plenty of time to get ready for the math section of the test. Make a plan that prioritizes algebra and geometry, as this is where the bulk of the test questions will come from, and you’re guaranteed to see several questions on these topics. As you study for math, make a log of areas of strength and weaknesses and keep track of how they fluctuate over time.
The more practice questions you do, you should see an uptick in both your scores and speed. Keep track of your scores. You might have your own personal goals, but a good score is considered 24 or higher, which puts you in the 75th percentile when it comes to performance.
Some tools you can use include:
- Practice tests
- Flashcards
- Formula sheets
- An ACT tutor
An ACT tutor, like one from Alexander Tutoring, can help you build your study plan and find excellent prep materials to work with. It will give your studying a boost and help you pinpoint exact areas that you might need help with.
Ready To Master ACT Math?
Knowing what to study ahead of time is a great way to prepare for the math portion of the ACT exam. One way to really get a leg up and take your test prep to the next level is with a math tutor who can give you personalized attention and help you build a study plan that addresses your strengths and areas that need more help.
Our high-quality math and science tutors at Alexander Tutoring help students reach their academic goals by providing them with the individual attention that you just can’t get in group sessions or in the classroom. We use a variety of learning methods and adjust the speed and content accordingly to meet learners where they’re at and help get them where they want to be.
Reach out now to learn more about the Alexander Tutoring difference and to book a free consultation!
