Overview of ACT Section Topics

The ACT has three required sections—English, Mathematics, and Reading—plus two optional add-ons, Science and Writing. The three required sections run about two hours of testing; adding Science or Writing extends the day by roughly 40 minutes each. As an introduction to the sectional and subject-matter content of the ACT, please have a look at the following pages:

• ACT English
  This page is the place to learn about the ACT English assessment. Included are an outline of the ACT English test, a discussion of ACT English reading passages, an overview of ACT English question types, and a summary of the most important ACT English skills. Readers will also find information on ACT English scoring and score benchmarks as well as data on the ACT English test and university admission.
• ACT Mathematics
  Consult this page for a comprehensive yet concise overview of the ACT Math test, which includes a section outline, a description of sectional content, and information on test exercises and essential skills. We also discuss ACT Math scores, score benchmarks, and common scores at selective universities in the United States, which have high test score expectations from their applicants.
• ACT Reading
  The ACT Reading test is the subject of this page. Test-takers can learn everything they need to know about ACT Reading test passages, question types, vital skills, scoring, and score benchmarks. The ACT Reading test can have an impact on placement in college courses, and this topic is discussed as well. We also break down the Reading test questions into the various sectional reporting categories.
• ACT Science
  Learn about the ACT Science test—now an optional add-on that no longer counts toward the Composite—on this page. Find out which scientific disciplines its passages draw on, what types of questions to expect, and how the reporting categories break down. Important skills for the Science test, its scoring and benchmark data, and how test-optional admissions treat a Science score are also covered.
• ACT Writing
  The optional ACT Writing test is the focus of this page. Learn about the ACT Writing test essay prompt, essay task, essential skills, assessment criteria, scoring process, and score descriptions. The Writing test's contribution to the ACT English Language Arts (ELA) score and benchmarks and ACT Writing scores at the top universities in the United States are among the other subjects discussed.