Common Mistakes To Avoid in the ACT Math Section

Last Updated: 17th June, 2025
Author: Anshu Dahiya

Summary

The ACT Math section challenges students with a mix of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry under strict time pressure. This blog outlines the most common mistakes students make, like misreading questions, mismanaging time, overusing calculators, and forgetting key formulas. It also offers actionable tips to help students stay focused, improve speed, and avoid careless errors. Strategies such as process of elimination, reviewing wrong answers, and practicing regularly are emphasized. By understanding these pitfalls and preparing smartly, students can strengthen their ACT Math performance and significantly boost their overall score.

Common Mistakes To Avoid in the ACT Math Section

The ACT Math section is a major hurdle for many students aiming for a competitive composite score. It tests not only your grasp of mathematical concepts but also your problem-solving speed and time management skills. Unfortunately, even well-prepared students fall into common traps that lower their score in the ACT Math section, impacting their overall ACT Score. 

In this blog, we’ll break down the most common mistakes in the ACT Math section. Read this blog too on how to score high in the New ACT Exam Format 2025. 

Mistake 1: Misreading or Misunderstanding the Problem

Many students rush through questions and misinterpret what's being asked. A single skipped word can change the meaning of the entire question.

How to Avoid It:

• Read every question carefully and identify what is actually being asked.
• Underline key phrases, values, and goals (e.g., “What is the value of x after 2 hours?”).
• Restate the question in your own words before solving.

Mistake 2: Poor Time Management

You have a limited time for the ACT Math Section, and that includes everything from algebra to trigonometry. Spending too much time on one problem can cost you easy points later.

How to Avoid It:

• Mark tough problems and come back to them later.
• Practice with timed mock ACT Math sections.

Mistake 3: Careless Reading

Even when you understand the math, skimming a question can make you miss important details—like negative signs, units, or keywords like "not" or "except."

How to Avoid It:

• Slow down enough to spot key terms.
• Pay attention to units of measurement, data values, and conditions in word problems.
• Read answer choices carefully—some are there to trick you.

Mistake 4: Forgetting or Misapplying Formulas

From the quadratic formula to circle equations, ACT Math expects you to know certain formulas cold. Forgetting them—or worse, using them incorrectly—can cost you valuable points.

How to Avoid It:

• Create a formula cheat sheet and revise it regularly.
• Understand the logic behind formulas, not just how to use them.
• Practice applying formulas in different question types.

Mistake 5: Overusing the Calculator

While the ACT Math section allows a calculator, over-reliance can slow you down or cause avoidable errors, especially on simple calculations.

How to Avoid It:

• Use calculators only when necessary (e.g., large multiplication or square roots).
• Strengthen your mental math for basic operations and estimations.
• Practice without a calculator to improve number sense.

Mistake 6: Lack of Practice

No matter how strong your math skills are, familiarity with ACT-style questions is crucial. Without enough practice, you may be caught off guard by tricky question wording or unfamiliar formats.

How to Avoid It:

• Solve official ACT practice tests and review your mistakes.
• Use ACT-specific prep resources that mirror real test questions.
• Mix up topics to stay sharp across all math categories.

Mistake 7: Ignoring the Process of Elimination

Many students forget that ACT Math is multiple-choice—even if you’re unsure of the exact answer, you can often eliminate one or more wrong choices to increase your odds.

How to Avoid It:

• Cross out clearly incorrect options.
• Plug choices back into the question to see what works.
• Use back-solving or estimation if you're stuck.

Bonus Tips to Maximize Your ACT Math Score

Here are a few final strategies to help you avoid common pitfalls and perform your best on test day:

Conclusion

Mastering ACT Math isn’t just about knowing formulas—it’s about avoiding the small, repeated mistakes that drain your score. By being aware of these common errors and practicing targeted strategies to overcome them, you can significantly improve your performance and boost your overall ACT score.

We hope this article helps you. Reach out to us by filling out our assistance form if you need any help with the preparations.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

1. What are the most common mistakes in the ACT Math section?
Ans: Misreading questions, poor time management, overusing calculators, forgetting formulas, and lack of practice are among the top mistakes.

2. How can I manage time effectively during the ACT Math section?
Ans: Practice timed sections regularly, aim for one question per minute, and skip tough questions to revisit later.

3. Is it okay to use a calculator throughout the ACT Math test?
Ans: Yes, but avoid overusing it—rely on mental math for simpler calculations to save time.

4. Which formulas should I memorize for the ACT Math section?
Ans: Key formulas include those for area, volume, slope, quadratic equations, and circle geometry. Create a cheat sheet to revise them.

5. How can I reduce careless mistakes on ACT Math?
Ans: Read questions carefully, underline key details, check your answers in context, and stay consistent with your practice.