Time Management Strategies For The ACT: How to Finish on Time

Let’s be honest the ACT is more about what you do, not what you know. Many students enter the exam room feeling confident in their understanding, only to be panic-stricken when facing the clock. Only having enough time to guess on the last few questions or leave them blank can spiral a confident student into worry. Does that sound like you?

But here’s the good news: time management is a skill, and like any skill, it can be learned and improved with the right strategies and practice. In this blog, we’ll explain exactly how to finish each ACT section on time without compromising accuracy. 

Whether you’re just starting your prep or looking to sharpen your approach before test day, these tips will help you take control of the clock and the test.

Understanding the ACT Time Limits

Before effectively managing your time on the ACT, you must understand precisely how much time you have for each section and what that means regarding pacing.

The ACT is divided into four required sections—English, Math, Reading, and Science—plus an optional Writing (Essay) section. Here’s how the timing breaks down:

• English: 75 questions in 45 minutes — about 36 seconds per question.
  
  
• Math: 60 questions in 60 minutes — 1 minute per question.
  
  
• Reading: 40 questions in 35 minutes — roughly 52 seconds per question.
  
  
• Science: 40 questions in 35 minutes — around 52 seconds per question.
  
  
• Writing (Essay): 1 essay in 40 minutes.

When you see it laid out like this, it’s clear why so many students struggle with timing. The ACT isn’t just testing your knowledge, it’s testing your ability to make quick decisions, stay focused, and avoid getting stuck. One question that takes too long can throw off your pace for the entire section.

General Time Management Principles

Whether you’re working through any part of the test, effective time management on the ACT starts with good habits and practice. These general techniques are sure to keep you on your feet, keep you calm, and keep you in control during the ACT.

1. Practice Under Timed Conditions

One of the biggest mistakes students make is practising without a timer. If you’re not simulating the absolute pressure of the clock, you’re not thoroughly preparing for test day. Always use a stopwatch or timer when doing practice tests or even single sections. Train your brain to work quickly and efficiently.

2. Use a Watch (But Know How to Use It)

Bring a digital or analogue watch to the test centre just ensure it’s not a smartwatch. Practice using it during your prep so you’re used to checking the time without losing focus. Some students like to set countdowns per section, while others mark checkpoints (e.g., “I should be halfway done with English by the 22-minute mark”).

3. Know When to Move On

If a question is taking too long, move on. Don’t let one tricky item rob you of the chance to answer three easier ones. Mark the question, take your best guess, and return if you have time later.

4. Don’t Double-Check Everything

Switching your answer or second-guessing every answer when you feel nervous is easy! But in a timed test, do not let that habit take away your time! Go with your gut and only change your answers if you have time to spare.

5. Develop Your Personal Pacing Strategy

Everyone has a different rhythm. Some people work steadily from start to finish; others like to quickly get through the easy questions and return for the tougher ones. Through timed practice, figure out which method works best for you and stick with it.

6. Build Mental Stamina

The ACT is a marathon, not a sprint. You’ll be sitting for over three hours with minimal breaks. That’s why it’s essential to build endurance through full-length practice tests. Learn how to stay focused even when you’re tired or distracted.

Math Section Time Management Strategies

The Math section gives you 60 questions in 60 minutes—exactly one minute per problem. To maximise accuracy without burning time, try these tactics:

1. Triage Questions by Difficulty

• Quick Wins First: Breeze through easy questions (typically 1–20) to bank points swiftly.
  
  
• Flag and Skip: When you hit a more challenging problem that looks unfamiliar or time‑consuming, circle or flag it and move on.
  
  

2. Set Mini Checkpoints

• Every 15 Minutes: Aim to complete roughly 15 questions.
  
  
• Mid‑Section Review: At the 30‑minute mark, glance at your flagged problems. You have time to revisit the easiest of those before moving forward.
  
  

3. Use Scratch Paper Efficiently

Organise your work: write each problem’s number, set up equations neatly, and box your final answer. Chaotic scratch work can cost precious seconds.

4. Memorise Key Formulas and Shortcuts

Standard geometry and algebra formulas (e.g., area/perimeter, quadratics, circle theorems) should be instantly retrievable. Learn mental math tricks for squares, fractions, and per cent conversions to avoid lengthy calculations.

5. Plug In Numbers

When algebraic expressions look complicated, choose small, easy-to-work-with values for variables or answer choices to test which one fits. This “plug-in strategy” often beats symbolic manipulation under time pressure.

6. Estimate When Possible

If the problem allows, eliminate wrong choices by estimating. When answer choices are far apart, an approximate calculation can get you to the correct answer in half the time.

7. Watch the Clock—but Don’t Obsess

Glancing at your watch every few problems keeps you on pace, but avoid losing focus by checking too often. Trust your mini checkpoints to gauge your progress.

Reading Section Time Management Strategies

The Reading section often feels like a race against the clock. You have 40 questions to answer in just 35 minutes—less than a minute per question. That might not seem too bad, until you factor in that you must read four whole passages before answering any questions.

You need innovative strategies, not just fast reading, to succeed here.

1. Decide on Your Reading Approach: Skim or Read?

There’s no one-size-fits-all strategy. Some students prefer skimming the passage first, then diving into the questions. Others read the questions first and then scan for answers. Try both methods during practice tests and choose the best for your brain.

2. Budget Time per Passage

Aim to spend around 8 to 9 minutes per passage, including reading and answering all 10 questions. Don’t let one passage consume more than 10 minutes, or you’ll run out of time for the others.

3. Don’t Get Lost in the Details

You are not being assessed on whether you can remember information; you’re being evaluated based on your ability to find information quickly. Do not worry about trying to note down each word – instead, you need to find out where the main ideas are located, where the structure of the document is, what the tone is and where the main details are structured.

4. Use Line References and Keywords

A lot of questions will give you specific lines to locate. Use those references to get straight to that part of the text. For wider questions like the main idea or tone, check the intro and conclusion of the passage.

5. Answer What’s Asked—Not What You Think

Base your answer strictly on what’s stated or implied in the passage. Don’t let outside knowledge or personal opinions cloud your judgment.

6. Practice with All Passage Types

The ACT includes four types of reading passages:

• Prose Fiction/Literary Narrative
  
  
• Social Science
  
  
• Humanities
  
  
• Natural Science
  
  

Each requires a slightly different reading style. Familiarise yourself with all four to avoid surprises on test day.

7. Move On if You’re Stuck

If you’re staring at a question too long, circle it and move on. You can return later if there’s time. Getting stuck on one question is the fastest way to fall behind.

Science Section Time Management Strategies

At first glance, the ACT Science section can feel overwhelming, with graphs, tables, and dense scientific jargon thrown at you. But here’s a secret: you don’t need to be a science whiz to ace it. What you need is speed, focus, and strategy.

You’ll face 40 questions in 35 minutes, spread across six or seven short science passages. That means you have about 5 to 6 minutes per passage, including reading and answering.

Here’s how to manage your time like a pro:

1. Skim the Visuals First

Graphs, tables, and figures will present the necessary information to answer the questions. When using this method, quickly glance at the visuals before you read the passage. Get an overall view of what is measured, how it is labelled, and if there are any trends or changes.

2. Avoid Getting Caught in the Text

The ACT Science text can be heavy, but don’t let it psych you out. You should skim for the main idea and any bolded words or descriptions of studies. The important thing is understanding the experiment’s setup, not necessarily memorising every detail.

3. Practice Data Interpretation

Most questions involve reading data, identifying trends, and comparing results. Sharpen your ability to:

• Spot increases/decreases
  
  
• Match values across axes
  
  
• Understand controls and variables.
  
  
• Interpret scientific logic quickly
  
  

4. Know the Passage Types

Familiarise yourself with the three main passage types:

• Data Representation (graphs and charts)
  
  
• Research Summaries (experiments)
  
  
• Conflicting Viewpoints (two or more perspectives on a topic)
  
  

Conflicting Viewpoints passages usually take longer—save them for last if they slow you down during practice.

5. Answer Based on the Info Given

You’re not expected to know scientific facts beyond basic knowledge. Base all your answers strictly on what the passage and visuals provide. Don’t bring in outside info from your science classes.

6. Guess Strategically if Needed

If a passage is taking too long, guess on the more complex questions and move on. Eliminate wrong answers first, then make an educated guess never leave blanks.

7. Practice With Real Timing

Speed and familiarity are key here. Use real ACT practice tests under timed conditions to build speed and confidence. Over time, you’ll begin to recognise question patterns and navigate them faster.

Writing (Essay) Time Management Strategies

If you’ve opted to take the ACT with the optional Writing section, you must write a well-structured essay in just 40 minutes. Your task is to analyse an issue, evaluate three perspectives, and present your argument in response all within a single, timed sitting.

Here’s how to break it down and stay on track:

1. Follow the 5-5-25-5 Rule

A great way to manage your time is to divide it like this:

• 5 minutes to plan and outline
  
  
• 5 minutes to write your introduction
  
  
• 25 minutes to write your body paragraphs
  
  
• 5 minutes to write and proofread your conclusion
  
  

This structure keeps you organised and ensures you don’t waste time before wrapping up.

2. Use a Clear, Standard Essay Structure

Stick to a familiar, five-paragraph format:

• Introduction: Present the issue and your thesis
  
  
• Body Paragraph 1: Discuss one perspective and how it aligns/conflicts with yours
  
  
• Body Paragraph 2: Analyse a second perspective and compare
  
  
• Body Paragraph 3: Support your position with evidence
  
  
• Conclusion: Restate your argument and summarise key points
  
  

This format helps graders follow your argument easily and prevents you from wasting time wondering what to write next.

3. Outline Before You Write

Don’t skip the planning phase. In just 5 minutes, jot down:

• Your thesis
  
  
• Main points to cover
  
  
• A brief comparison of the given perspectives
  
  
• Real-world or personal examples to support your view
  
  

Even a quick outline can keep your essay focused and coherent.

4. Develop Your Ideas with Specific Examples

Make your argument stronger and your writing more impressive by using examples from current events, history, literature, or personal experience. Avoid vague generalisations.

5. Leave Time to Edit

Reserve the last few minutes to proofread. Fix grammar, clarify awkward phrasing, and make sure your conclusion wraps things up cleanly. Even a few small changes can make your essay appear more polished.

Final Tips to Stay Calm and Confident

Even with perfect time management strategies, the ACT can still feel stressful. But staying calm, collected, and mentally prepared is half the battle. Here are a few final tips to help you confidently walk into test day and walk out knowing you gave it your best shot.

1. Trust Your Preparation

If you’ve been practising under timed conditions, reviewing your mistakes, and refining your strategy, you’re more ready than you think. Trust the process and your progress.

2. Sleep Well the Night Before

Pulling an all-nighter, cramming formulas or reading grammar rules won’t help. A well-rested brain thinks faster, focuses better, and stays calm under pressure. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep before test day.

3. Eat a Balanced Breakfast

Avoid heavy or sugary foods that can make you sluggish. Opt for brain-fueling options like oatmeal, fruits, whole grains, and a little protein. Bring water and a snack for your break.

4. Use Deep Breathing Techniques

Are you anxious while you are taking the test? Try closing your eyes, taking a deep nose breath, and breathing slowly. Do this a couple of times, and it can lower your stress levels and help you focus again.

5. Have a Game Plan if You Fall Behind

Don’t panic if you lose track of time during a section. Move on, guess strategically, and bubble in something for every question. Remember—there’s no penalty for wrong answers on the ACT.

6. Keep a Positive Mindset

Instead of thinking, “I must achieve a perfect score”, tell yourself, “I’ve prepared, I know the strategies, and I’m putting forth related effort,” which can help eliminate pressure.

7. Visualise Success

In the days leading up to the test, spend a few minutes each day visualising yourself confidently moving through each section, finishing on time, and walking out proud. Visualisation is a proven technique top performers use in sports, business, and academics.