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Cheat sheet

ACT Science cheat sheet

A condensed reference for the formulas, graph-reading rules, and must-know facts most worth reviewing before exam day.

Approach (figures first)

  • Skip the intro paragraph at first — go straight to the graphs/tables and let the questions send you back.
  • For every figure, read the axis labels, units, and what each line/column represents before answering.
  • Budget ~5 minutes per passage so you finish all seven-ish sets.
  • Save Conflicting Viewpoints (the reading-heavy one) for last if you're short on time.
  • Most answers are a direct data lookup or a trend — resist overthinking.

The three question skills

  • Read a data point: find the row/column or the exact spot on the curve.
  • Identify a trend: 'as X increases, Y increases / decreases / stays the same.'
  • Interpolate/extrapolate: estimate a value between or just beyond the plotted data using the trend.
  • Combine figures: many questions need you to use two graphs/tables together.
  • Experimental design: know the independent variable (changed), dependent variable (measured), and control (unchanged baseline).

Conflicting Viewpoints + the few content facts

  • Summarize each scientist's/student's main claim in a few words before answering.
  • Answer 'which viewpoint would agree/disagree' by matching a statement to that claim.
  • Basic facts worth reviewing: states of matter and phase changes, density = mass/volume, pH (<7 acidic, >7 basic), and photosynthesis/respiration inputs and outputs.
  • Watch for questions asking which result supports or weakens a hypothesis.
  • Don't bring in personal opinions — stick to each passage's stated reasoning and data.

Practice this first: Data Representation - Reading graphs and tables and spotting trends — the most common and fastest question type.

Now put it to work - practice ACT Science free

Reviewing the sheet is step one. Passers are usually hitting about 70-80% on realistic practice before test day, so the fastest way to know you are ready is to start answering real questions.