The ACT can be your ticket to getting into your dream university or being accepted into your preferred program. Because of this, many recommend practicing before the actual test.
Studies find that taking practice tests can contribute to higher exam scores. But what happens when you time it? While there are mixed ideas about timed tests, they can provide benefits during practice.
Here are some of the impacts of timing an ACT practice test.
Maintaining Focus
One of the top advantages of timing your ACT practice test is learning how to stay focused, even with the time ticking behind you. When you aim to answer each question within a given time, you will likely concentrate more and avoid distractions.
Moreover, it can motivate you to focus on getting the questions right rather than paying close attention to the time.
Staying Comfortable
Contrary to popular belief, a testing timer can help you become more comfortable while you take a timed test. Think of it this way, practicing with a timer allows you to get used to the possible pressure it puts on you.
The more you do this, the more you get used to it. And so, you can feel more confident and relaxed when you take the actual test.
Boosting Accuracy
When you get the hang of timed tests, you can pay closer attention to getting accurate answers rather than answering as fast as you can. One thing to note about the ACT is that it’s about getting answers correct instead of finishing every question before the time.
So, practice tests with a timer help you get used to the time limit while focusing on the accuracy of your answers.
Improves Testing Skill
With a timed ACT practice test, you improve your testing skills, especially with thinking on your feet. This way, you can pay closer attention to preparing yourself for any possible question while deciding faster and critically.
It’s a skill you can use beyond the testing scene but also in future encounters where you have to think fast. For example, during job interviews or more practical situations, like emergencies.
You can also practice other ACT testing strategies with each timed practice test you take until you master them.
Discourages Malpractice
Timing a practice test is one way to teach you to stay disciplined during the test. So, it can discourage any form of malpractice while you take the exam.
When you have a limited time to answer each question, you run out of time to access other resources or communicate with other people during the test. Given this, it’s better to have an idea of what the answer could be or understand the question better.
It also promotes fairness, allowing you to get the score you desire through your hard work, effort, and dedication.
Reduce Distractions
As mentioned earlier, a timed ACT practice test can help you maintain your focus from start to finish. Likewise, it teaches you to pay less attention to potential distractions around you.
When you only have a limited amount of time to work on something, you are more likely not to think about it. So, you can encourage yourself to prioritize answering each question with accuracy and confidence.
Focus on Better Scores by Timing Your ACT Practice Test
Using a testing timer when you take an ACT practice test is one way to promote better testing abilities. It can help you stay focused, teach you to be relaxed, and improve your accuracy and correctness. This way, you can boost the chances of achieving your desired results!
