When preparing for the ACT, it can be overwhelming at first, but with the right approach, preparation can be easy and extremely beneficial. The ACT is a standardized test that measures a student in core subjects such as math, english, and reading. The ACT test is important, and success doesn’t come from cramming the night before the test. Effective test prep is about consistent effort. With an effective plan in place, taking the test can be less stressful, which makes it an easier testing experience overall.
One of the first steps in preparation for the ACT is understanding the format of the test. Knowing how many sections there are, the amount of time each section is expected to take, and what type of questions will be on the test can make it a smoother testing experience. Many students struggle with taking the test due to their lack of preparation. A lack of preparation results in the student finding it difficult to focus when they are attempting to navigate the test. When practicing for the ACT, setting a time limit while pr
acticing specific sections can be very beneficial, allowing an easy transition from practice to the real experience.
Pahrump Valley High School grants students an opportunity to prepare for the test. The GEAR UP program sponsors what is called the ACT bootcamp alongside Mr. Larssen and Mr. Sepulveda. The ACT bootcamp has been running for about five years; Mr. Larssen states, “I think we’ve done it for about five years now, since COVID. It seems to work for the ones who show up. They get higher scores, of course, they care. They’ve improved usually by a couple of points.” The next bootcamp will be on the 7th of February, and the actual exam will be on the 24th of February.
The ACT can bear a heavy burden for some students who may be dreading the test. From one student attending PVHS, Junior Cailyn Marsh states, “My advice for any new ACT test takers is to start studying as soon as possible. The sooner, the better.” Although during high school the test doesn’t directly affect students besides when they take it, it goes on their record, and colleges will look at these scores. It is in the students best interest to try their best on the ACT so they won’t have to retake it which would cost money. Cienna Kamaile Correa, a senior at PVHS who took the ACT her junior year stated, “I do think people do actually try because it is on your record and it is important for college,” when asked if she believed that the ACT was beneficial.
ACT preparation is not just about studying content; it is about familiarity, confidence, and effective habits. Because the ACT affects a student’s image when a college looks at them, it is crucial that they try on the test. With the right approach, the test becomes less of a source of stress and more of an opportunity to demonstrate readiness for college. Start preparing for the ACT as soon as possible. It is never too early to start preparing
