What Math Is On The ACT?

For many students and parents who are preparing to apply for colleges, the ACT can feel overwhelming, as it is often used by colleges to determine admission. This is especially true when it comes to the math portion of the exam. We are often asked the same questions when students start to prepare to take the ACT, including What math is on the ACT? What type of math is tested?

At Genie Academy, we work closely with students and their parents to break down the ACT math section into clear and understandable parts. By understanding the ACT math concepts, the structure of the test, the time allotted to complete the test, and how questions are presented, students can approach the math section of the ACT exam with confidence rather than anxiety.

How Many Questions Are On The ACT Math Test?

Before diving into specific ACT math topics, it helps to understand how the ACT math section of the test is structured. The ACT math section is designed to measure a student’s understanding of various ACT math concepts that are typically taught in school through the end of 11th grade. It also evaluates the student’s problem-solving ability, reasoning skills, and how well students apply the math they’ve learned in practical situations.

To better understand the ACT, parents and students often ask two common questions:

1. How many questions are on the ACT math test?
   The ACT math section includes 60 multiple-choice questions that span several math subjects.

2. How long is the ACT math section?
   Students are given 60 minutes to complete the math section of the test, which works out to about one minute per question.

This 60-minute time limit often puts pressure on students, and it is commonly one of the biggest challenges students face when preparing for the math portion of the ACT. Even strong math students can struggle if they do not practice efficiency through practice tests.

What Type of Math Is on the ACT? The ACT Math Section Explained

The ACT math section is organized into several broad categories. Many students ask what type of math is on the ACT, and understanding these categories makes it easier to review and practice problems in each subject before taking the test.

Pre-Algebra and Basic Math Foundations

The ACT math section will test a student on pre-algebra and foundational math questions, which are taught in elementary and middle school. These foundational math questions form the base of the ACT math section and often appear early in the test. While they may look straightforward, they still require accuracy and speed to be completed on time and correctly.

Common ACT math concepts in the pre-algebra category include:

• Whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages

• Ratios and proportions

• Place value and number properties

• Simple equations and inequalities

• Interpreting tables, charts, and graphs

At Genie Academy, we often see students miss these questions, but not because the math is difficult. These questions are often missed due to careless mistakes or rushing to get through all the questions. Through practice tests and guidance when reviewing subjects, students can tackle this section of the math portion of the ACT test with ease.

Beginner Algebra and Linear Relationships

When most people ask our team what math is on the ACT, foundational algebra is the most commonly referred to subject. Many questions on the math portion of the ACT involve solving for variables and understanding the order of operations for equations.

Students should be comfortable with the following algebra subjects:

• Solving linear equations and inequalities

• Graphing linear equations

• Systems of equations

• Factoring expressions

• Evaluating algebraic expressions

Our tutors work with students to recognize common ACT question patterns and order of operations for algebra equations, so they know when to solve, substitute, or simplify instead of overcomplicating the problem.

Intermediate Algebra and Functions

As students progress through the ACT math portion, the questions will become more complex and layered. Intermediate algebra questions are missed by students who rely on memorization rather than understanding the theory behind algebra questions.

ACT math topics in this area include:

• Quadratic equations and parabolas

• Polynomials and rational expressions

• Exponents and radicals

• Functions and function notation

• Word problems involving algebraic modeling

At Genie Academy, we teach students how to translate math word problems into equations quickly, which is a skill that saves them valuable time during the exam.

Geometry Concepts on the ACT

Geometry questions have consistently been on the math portion of the ACT for many years. These questions test both memorized geometric formulas and spatial reasoning.

Students can expect geometry questions involving:

• Angles, triangles, and polygons

• Circles, arcs, and sectors

• Area and perimeter

• Volume and surface area

• Coordinate geometry

Many geometry problems can be solved faster by recognizing relationships and theory instead of applying formulas step-by-step. Our ACT prep courses focus on identifying geometric shortcuts and visual strategies that work to help students answer all questions within the time limit.

Trigonometry and Advanced ACT Math Topics

Trigonometry makes up a smaller portion of the ACT math section, but it is still important to understand and be able to apply the concepts of trigonometry. These questions tend to appear later in the test and may feel more intimidating to students.

Trigonometry ACT math concepts here include:

• Sine, cosine, and tangent

• Right triangle relationships

• Basic trigonometric identities

• Angles measured in degrees

Students do not need to have advanced calculus-level knowledge to get through the trigonometry section of the test, but they must be comfortable applying trig ratios quickly and accurately.

How Genie Academy Helps Students Master ACT Math Concepts

Genie Academy provides targeted ACT prep courses and tutoring services that are designed around each student’s strengths and weaknesses. Rather than utilizing one-size-fits-all lessons, we personalize instruction to meet what each student actually needs to feel confident taking the ACT.

Our ACT math support includes:

• Diagnostic assessments to identify gaps

• Personalized study plans

• Step-by-step instructions across all ACT math topics

• Practice with real ACT-style questions

• Timed drills to improve pacing

Whether a student struggles with algebra, geometry, or advanced topics like trigonometry, our tutors break concepts down in ways that make sense and provide practice assessments to ensure students are prepared and confident.

Beyond ACT Math Topics - Building Confidence for College Readiness

Genie Academy’s mission goes further than just helping students understand the ACT math topics. Having strong ACT math skills often translates into better performance in high school classes and future college classes.

In addition to ACT prep, our team at Genie Academy offers support in:

• Math at all grade levels

• English, reading, and writing

• Abacus training for mental math development

• SAT preparation as part of our expanding college prep services

With a central location in East Brunswick and multiple locations throughout New Jersey, our team at Genie Academy works closely with families who want long-term academic growth for their children, not just a test score bump.