ACT Reading Test

The ACT Reading Test measures reading comprehension skills through a variety of passages and question types.

Understanding Passage TypesQuestion Types and What They TestReading for Main Ideas and Details
Interpreting Author’s Tone and PurposeAnalyzing Relationships and ArgumentsMaking Inferences and Synthesizing Information
Applying Reading Skills to Everyday LifeCollaborative Reading and DiscussionUsing Reading Strategies in Other Subjects
Time Management During the TestActive Reading Techniques
Understanding Passag...Question Types and W...Reading for Main Ide...Interpreting Author’...Analyzing Relationsh...Making Inferences an...Applying Reading Ski...Collaborative Readin...Using Reading Strate...Time Management Duri...Active Reading Techn...
Practical Applications

Applying Reading Skills to Everyday Life

Why Reading Skills Matter Off the Test

The skills you build for the ACT Reading Test are the same ones you use in real life—whether you’re scanning a news article, reading instructions for a new gadget, or following a recipe.

Everyday Scenarios

  • Comprehending and summarizing important information.
  • Separating fact from opinion.
  • Understanding written directions or contracts.
  • Critically evaluating social media posts.

Lifelong Benefits

Strong reading skills help you in school, at work, and as a well-informed citizen!

Examples

  • Reading a product review online and deciding if the product is worth buying.

  • Understanding the main idea of a safety manual at a new job.

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Collaborative Reading and Discussion