It's actually both. About 40% of the section tests scientific reasoning and data interpretation, while 30% requires reading comprehension and 30% involves visualization and analysis skills. The key difference from a typical science class is that you don't need to memorize formulas or specific science facts—you extract information from graphs, tables, and passages. Many Brooklyn students find they can boost their scores quickly by focusing on the data interpretation patterns that repeat across test sections, rather than trying to brush up on general science knowledge. A tutor can show you which reasoning skills matter most and help you recognize common question patterns.

The best way is to take a full-length practice test under timed conditions and score it carefully by question type—whether it was a data representation, research summary, or conflicting viewpoints passage, and which specific skill tripped you up (reading the graph, understanding the hypothesis, comparing results). Many students discover they struggle more with one passage type than others, or they lose points on specific reasoning skills like extrapolation or identifying experimental flaws. Getting matched with a tutor who can analyze your practice test results means you'll spend study time on what actually moves your score, rather than reviewing material you already understand.

Realistic improvement depends on where you're starting and how much you practice. Students who are scoring in the 16-20 range often see gains of 3-5 points with focused instruction and consistent practice, while those already scoring above 25 may see smaller but still meaningful improvements as they refine their approach. The research on 1-on-1 instruction shows it's particularly effective for test prep because tutors can target your specific weak spots rather than generic test content. Most students need 4-8 weeks of regular tutoring sessions combined with practice tests to see measurable score changes.

Test anxiety often peaks during Science because of the tight timing and unfamiliar passage types. Effective strategies include practicing with actual ACT Science passages repeatedly so the format becomes familiar, using timed drills to build confidence in your pacing, and learning breathing or mental reset techniques to use when you feel stuck on a question. The best confidence-builder is knowing your patterns—if you know you typically struggle with conflicting viewpoints passages, you can mentally prepare for that and have a backup strategy. Working with a tutor gives you someone to practice with and get feedback from, which significantly reduces anxiety by test day because nothing on the real test will feel completely new.

If you're aiming for significant score improvement, aim for 3-4 hours per week of focused study over 6-8 weeks. This typically breaks down to one or two tutoring sessions (1 hour each) combined with independent practice on your own. Your study time should include a mix of timed practice passages, full-length practice tests, and review of questions you missed. With Brooklyn's average student-teacher ratio of about 11.7 students per teacher, you likely haven't had much individualized feedback on your science skills—that's where tutoring creates the biggest difference by giving you targeted guidance you won't get in a classroom setting.

Ideally, start 2-3 months before your test date if you want time for both skill-building and practice testing. However, even 4-6 weeks of focused tutoring can make a meaningful difference if you're willing to put in consistent study time outside sessions. If you're taking the ACT for the first time, starting earlier gives you time to get comfortable with the passage types and develop your timing strategy. Many students benefit from taking a diagnostic practice test first to see where they stand, then connecting with a tutor who can create a study plan based on your specific score goals and timeline.