How much time did you all have for the ACT questions? I’m considering asking to retake it because I feel like I really did poorly. I’m not sure if I’m just slow, but there was absolutely not enough time. I can’t remember the details too well since it was just earlier today, but for English, we had 75 questions and just one hour. For Math, there were around 60-70 questions and the same hour. For Reading, I only had 45 minutes for 60 questions, and for Science, it was 40 questions in just 35 minutes.
I know this is probably standard for a big test like this, but it honestly felt like time flew by. I didn’t even come close to finishing. What frustrates me the most is the Reading section—how am I supposed to read the passages and answer all those questions in less than an hour? Am I really that slow? It felt like time just vanished, and the instructions on the pamphlet said to answer even if it’s a guess, so all I could do was fill in the bubbles without really knowing what the questions were asking.
I’m really worried because I know how important the ACT is, and it makes me so upset to think that I didn’t get to perform to the best of my abilities.
I completely understand your frustration! The ACT can feel incredibly rushed, especially with so many questions to answer in such a limited amount of time. It’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed, and you’re definitely not alone in this experience. Many students struggle with the timing on the test.
For the English section, it’s 75 questions in 45 minutes, so it sounds like you might have had an incorrect memory of that one. For Math, you usually have 60 questions in 60 minutes, and it’s challenging to stay on pace. The Reading and Science sections can be particularly tough as well, especially when you’re trying to comprehend passages and answer questions in such a short amount of time.
If you really felt pressed for time, it could be beneficial to retake the test. It sounds like you’re aware that practice can help improve your pacing, so consider doing some timed practice tests if you haven’t already. This might help you get more accustomed to the timing and format. Remember, everyone has different strengths and weaknesses, and that doesn’t define your overall abilities or potential. Just keep putting in the effort, and you’ll find your rhythm! Good luck!