Cracking the New ACT Exam Format

Summary

The ACT has long been known as the go-to test for fast readers. But with recent changes, the ACT Exam isn’t just about speed anymore. While it’s shorter and has fewer questions, the sections are now denser and more analytical, especially Reading and Math. Fast readers may still benefit, but only if they’re accurate under pressure. The optional Science section adds flexibility, but students must check college requirements.

Speed or Strategy? Cracking the New ACT Format

If you’re the kind of student who skims through English novels in one sitting or always finishes school exams before time’s up, someone’s probably told you: “You should take the ACT. It’s for fast readers like you.”

Well… not anymore. At least not exactly the way it used to be. The ACT exam has changed. It’s shorter, smarter, and surprisingly, not just about speed anymore. If you’re thinking of choosing ACT over SAT just because you're fast at reading, here’s a breakdown you need to read before you start preparing for the standardized tests.

What’s New in the ACT?

Here’s a quick summary of the new ACT Exam format:

Sounds like a relief, right? Fewer questions, shorter duration, even Science might not be mandatory. But hold on, that doesn't mean the ACT is suddenly “easy.”

Is the ACT Exam Still a Speed Game?

Yes… but with a twist. Earlier, the ACT Exam was about brute speed. Students really just needed to fly through the paper just to finish.

Now, with fewer questions but at a similar time, it seems like the students get more breathing room. But what most students miss is that: 

• ACT has made questions deeper, not just fewer.
• They’ve trimmed the exam a bit but kept the rigor. Reading passages, for example, are now denser and that means you still need to read fast, but also think deeper.

Fast Readers: Helped or Hindered?

So let’s say you're a naturally fast reader. Is the new ACT Exam in your favor?

YES, if:

• You can grasp main ideas quickly
• You don't need to re-read passages
• You manage pressure well and stay calm
• You're good at spotting answer traps without overanalyzing

and NO, if:

• You skim but miss key details
• You rush through math problems and make silly errors
• You’re fast, but not consistent in accuracy
• You rely on “gut feeling” rather than process-of-elimination

What About the Science Section Being Optional?

This is a big update. While Science was never really about “science knowledge” (it tested graphs, trends, and experiments), it was the section that often punished fast readers who weren’t careful. With it becoming optional, colleges now have more say, some may ignore it, and others may still require it.

The Math Section Is Still a Marathon

Despite overall trimming, ACT Math is still a full 50 minutes. Now with fewer questions (45 questions), you have slightly more time per question. But, ACT Math still mixes basic and advanced algebra, functions, geometry, and some statistics. Fast mental math helps, but clarity under pressure helps more.

So if you’re fast but not great at handling mixed difficulty levels in one sitting, you might struggle here.

ACT vs SAT: What Fast Readers Should Really Ask

Let’s flip the question.

It’s not about “Am I fast?” It’s really: “Am I fast and accurate under pressure?”

If the answer is yes, ACT could be your area to shine. But if you’re someone who does better with:

• Shorter reading units (like in Digital SAT’s mini passages)
• Modular structure with breaks (SAT has 2 Reading/Writing + 2 Math modules)
• A more analytical, less time-pressured flow

then Digital SAT might be a better match, even if you read fast.

Final Thoughts by Tutela

At TutelaPrep, we’ve worked with thousands of students, and here’s what we’ve learned:

• There’s no such thing as a “one-size-fits-all” test. Just because someone says a test matches your style doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for you.
• That’s why we recommend starting with a diagnostic test, especially with the updated ACT format now in the picture. (Click here to start with the New ACT Exam format diagnostic test for free!)
• It’s the most reliable way to understand how your speed, accuracy, and stamina hold up in a real test scenario.

Because in the end, it’s not about whether you’re fast or methodical, it’s about what works for you, and what gets you the score that opens doors to the IVY Leagues or your dream colleges. 

And at TutelaPrep, we’re here to help you figure that out, step by step.

Want to Try the New ACT Format?

TutelaPrep offers diagnostic testing, post-test strategy sessions, and mentoring based on your actual strengths. 

Because test prep isn’t one-size-fits-all. And neither are you.

Start now!

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

1. Has the ACT become easier with fewer questions?
Ans: Not really. While the number of questions is reduced, the complexity of each question has increased, maintaining the test's rigor.

2. Is the ACT still better for fast readers?
Ans: Not necessarily. The new format requires deeper comprehension and precision. Speed alone won’t be enough.

3. What does it mean that the Science section is now optional?
Ans: Colleges can now choose whether or not to consider the Science score. Students should check specific college requirements before skipping it.

4. How much time per question do students now get?
Ans: Slightly more than before. For example, English now allows approximately 42 seconds per question. But the questions are more analytical.

5. How can I know if the ACT is right for me?
Ans: Take a diagnostic test under timed conditions. It helps measure your balance of speed and accuracy, which is critical for the ACT.