Table of Contents
What is the ACT?
The ACT is a standardized test administered by ACT Inc that is widely recognized for admissions in the United States.
This is a summary of how much it costs:
| Component | Fee |
| The full ACT without writing | $66.00 |
| The full ACT with writing | $91.00 |
| Test Option Change | $25.00 |
So, if you think you are ready to take this up, financially, and if the additional cost doesn’t bother you, keep reading this article to discover which colleges require the optional writing component.
The ACT score ranges from 1 to 36 points. It consists of English, Maths, Science and Reading sections. Achieving high scores on either the SAT or the ACT is always a positive when it comes to college admissions.
A good score is considered to be above the national average. However, certain colleges are selective about their test score requirements. Therefore to help attain the desired scores for your dream colleges, study guides are necessary. This would steer clear of any surprises in the test and will also help you increase your score overall.
When you read through a guide, you will be able to identify where your strengths and weaknesses are. From thereon, you will be able to focus on your weaknesses more by getting additional guides that help you study in-depth.
To categorize your studying between Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Mathematics, there are individual guides for each of the subjects and a general guide that covers an overview of both subjects.
Some of the best ACT prep books for 2023 that may be of help to you for your preparations are listed below:
Also Read: ACT Tips: Strategies for Excelling in the American College Testing Exam
The official ACT Prep Book 2022-2023
This book is not only made put together by ACT test makers, but also consists of past papers as well. It ensures holistic understanding and thorough practice. This book gives the opportunity of completing five full-length exams along with the optional essay writing portions.
This closely mimics the setting and the paper of the actual ACT test. Additionally, in-depth explanations are given behind the answer to every question.
You will also have the option of taking the tests online as it can automatically assess you and let you know your weaknesses. The average cost of this book would be $31.18 plus shipping on Amazon.
Also Read : Top 5 ACT Study Session Tips for More Efficient Prep.
Act Prep books by Magoosh
This book consists of 300+ practice questions that cover all of the ACT areas. Additionally, there are also tips and tricks as to how you should approach each section in the ACT test.
To make your studying process more effective, there is also an in-depth study schedule and a full-length practice test that allows you to get the feel of the actual test.
The average cost of this book would be $19.99 plus shipping on Amazon.
Princeton review ACT Premium Prep
This ACT Premium book provides access to 8 different practice tests inclusive of 4 online tests that way you would experience and familiarize yourself with both kinds of testing.
Additionally, they also include video tutorials, basic content reviewing, and small practice question banks for each section. They also include a study plan that helps you organize your time efficiently and work accordingly.
This Review is also structured in a way to point out and develop your skills required for the five sections of the ACT there is.
Understanding these skills, techniques, and strategies would also help you earn a better score. The average cost of this book would be $9.00 plus shipping on Amazon.
However, these are some of the few good books that you could get to prepare for the ACT test. They help you with study plans and a good amount of practice tests so you don’t surprise yourself with anything new during the ACT test.
Barron’s ACT Premium Study Guide
This book is a compilation of a total of 6 tests. You will be given the opportunity to take 3 exams online, 2 exams offline, and a diagnostic test to see where you stand in the class.
This diagnostic test will tell you your area of weaknesses and other areas where you have to improve. The average cost of this book would be $19.99 plus shipping on Amazon.
ACT Prep Black Book
This book is known for one of the most important aspects: the different strategies to overcome different types of questions. It also uses a very colloquial style of writing to emulate a tutor’s voice. ACT Prep Black Book is a very engaging and informative book.
It walks you through any ‘traps’ you might come across in the test and advises you on how to tackle them.
Kaplan ACT Prep Plus 2023
Kaplan is a partner for the ACT, hence proving itself credible. It provides a year of access to online test prep material. In this you will be provided with five full-length practice tests, scoring and analysis of one practice test, answer explanations for all practice tests, quizzes, and video lessons covering ACT material.
All the best with your preparations and your test!
Also Read: The Pre-ACT: What You Need to Know About the Preparatory Test
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are ACT prep books?
A: AP prep books are study guides designed to help students prepare for Advanced Placement (AP) exams. These books typically include practice tests, review materials, and strategies for tackling exam questions.
Q2: How do I choose the best AP prep book?
A: When choosing an AP prep book, look for a book that is aligned with the specific AP exam you are preparing for. Consider the reputation of the author and publisher, the reviews and ratings of the book, and whether the book includes practice tests and comprehensive review materials.
Q3: What are some suggestions for AP prep books in 2023?
- The Princeton Review’s “Cracking the AP” series: These books provide comprehensive reviews of the subject matter, practice exams, and strategies for success on the AP exam.
- Barron’s AP series: This series is known for its detailed content review, practice exams, and online resources.
- Kaplan’s AP series: These books offer in-depth subject review, practice questions, and online resources, including personalized study plans and interactive quizzes.
- The College Board’s official AP prep books: These books are created by the same organization that designs the AP exams, so they offer authentic practice questions and tips for success.
- 5 Steps to a 5 AP series: This series provides a targeted study plan, practice exams, and helpful strategies for approaching different types of AP exam questions.
Q4: Are there any free AP prep resources available?
A: Yes, there are free AP prep resources available online, such as the College Board website and Khan Academy. However, keep in mind that these resources may not be as comprehensive as paid prep books.
Q5: How early should I start using AP prep books to study for an exam?
A: It is recommended to start studying for AP exams at least two months in advance, but the earlier you start, the better. You may want to start using prep books as soon as you begin your AP course to ensure that you have a strong understanding of the material throughout the year.
Further reading:
