Most students struggle with timing because they try to read every word in the passages. Instead, skim the passage quickly, then go straight to the questions—the questions tell you exactly what information you need. Practice with timed drills to find your rhythm: aim to spend about 5-6 minutes per passage. Tutors can help you identify which question types slow you down and develop strategies to tackle them efficiently.

The best way is to take full-length practice tests under timed conditions and review every wrong answer—not just the ones you guessed on. Look for patterns: Are you missing data interpretation questions? Struggling with certain science topics? Running out of time? Once you pinpoint weak areas, you can focus your study time strategically. Tutors can analyze your practice test results and create a targeted study plan that addresses your specific challenges.

Score improvement depends on your starting point and effort level. Students who work with tutors typically see gains of 2-4 points on the ACT Science section, though some improve more with consistent practice and targeted strategy work. The key is identifying what's holding you back—whether it's timing, understanding question formats, or specific science concepts—and addressing it systematically. Most students benefit from 4-8 weeks of focused preparation.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or unsure of your strategy. Building confidence through practice tests and understanding the question formats can significantly reduce anxiety. Tutors can teach you mental strategies like breaking problems into smaller steps, managing your time so you're not rushed, and staying focused when you encounter difficult passages. Practicing under timed conditions also helps your brain get comfortable with the pressure.

If you're starting 8-12 weeks before test day, aim for 3-4 hours of focused ACT Science study per week. Break this into shorter sessions: 1-2 hours of practice tests or timed drills, plus 1-2 hours reviewing mistakes and learning strategies. Spacing out your study over weeks is more effective than cramming, and regular practice tests help you track progress. A tutor can customize a schedule based on your current score and target score.

Data interpretation skills are more important—about 60% of ACT Science questions focus on reading graphs, tables, and experimental setups rather than deep science knowledge. That said, understanding basic science concepts helps you interpret data more quickly and confidently. Most students benefit from spending 70% of study time on data interpretation strategies and 30% on reinforcing science fundamentals. A tutor can help you balance both based on your strengths.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment—either reviewing a recent practice test or taking a timed ACT Science section—to identify your strengths and weaknesses. You'll discuss your target score, timeline, and any specific concerns like timing or anxiety. From there, your tutor will create a personalized plan focused on the areas that will have the biggest impact on your score. This foundation helps make every subsequent session more productive and targeted.