Strategies for Answering ACT Questions

The video tutorial explains how the ACT English test uses certain words like 'except', 'least', and 'not' to trick test-takers into selecting the wrong answer. These words are always in capital letters, making them easier to spot. The tutorial advises students to cross off these words and evaluate each answer choice by writing 'yes' or 'no' next to them. By doing so, students can identify the incorrect answer, which is often the correct choice in these trick questions. The video emphasizes careful reading and using a pencil to mark key words as strategies to avoid falling for these tricks.

What is a common tactic used by the ACT English test to confuse test-takers?

• Inserting tricky words like 'except', 'least', and 'not'

• Including irrelevant information

• Changing the question format frequently

• Using complex vocabulary

Which of the following words, when capitalized, indicates a search for the incorrect answer?

• AND

• EXCEPT

• BECAUSE

• THEREFORE

What should you do first when you encounter a question with 'not', 'except', or 'least'?

• Skip the question

• Underline the entire question

• Cross off the tricky word

• Guess the answer

In the example question, what is the principal doing?

• Announcing a new policy

• Thanking parents and community members

• Welcoming students

• Discussing a new curriculum

Which of the following is NOT an appropriate replacement for 'financially sound'?

• Soluble

• Stable

• Solvent

• Secure

What does the word 'soluble' mean in the context of the example question?

• Sound

• Financially stable

• Easily dissolved

• Secure

Why is 'soluble' not a suitable replacement in the example question?

• It is not a real word

• It does not fit the context of financial stability

• It is too complex

• It is not a noun

What is the best way to avoid falling for the ACT's tricks?

• Read the questions quickly

• Ignore the capitalized words

• Read very carefully

• Guess the answers

What should you do after crossing off 'except', 'least', or 'not'?

• Write 'yes' or 'no' next to each answer choice

• Choose the first answer

• Re-read the question

• Skip to the next question

What is the purpose of writing 'yes' or 'no' next to each answer choice?

• To eliminate incorrect answers

• To practice writing

• To highlight the correct answer

• To make the question easier to read