Monday, August 30, 2010

Take Advantage Of A Calculator On The Act

Use a calculator wisely during the ACT.








The ACT is a college entrance exam that was originally founded in 1959. The test consists of up to five components including reading, science, English, a writing test and mathematics. The mathematics portion of the test consists of 60 questions with an allotted 60 minutes to complete the section. The use of calculators is allowed during the mathematics portion of the ACT, although there are specific guidelines that must be followed.


Instructions


1. Locate a calculator that conforms to the ACT rules regarding use of electronic devices during the test. For instance, certain brands and models of graphing calculators, small laptops with calculators and calculators built into cellphones are prohibited.


2. Test your calculator before the test to ensure it is working. Replace the batteries and perform a few calculations.


3. Use a calculator that you are familiar with during the test. Avoid purchasing a new, complicated calculator before the test. This will keep you from having to learn the functions of the device during the exam, which will take up valuable time.








4. Scan the question to determine its difficulty before using the calculator. All of the questions on the ACT are designed to be solved without calculators. If the question is easily solved by hand, skip the calculator to save some time.


5. Pay attention while entering numbers into the calculator. Take your time to ensure that you are using the correct figures to avoid having to answer the same questions twice.

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