Answer eliminator crosses out choices on screen. Answer masking hides them until you choose to look. Both are digital tools, not a change to scoring. The full tool list is in digital ACT tools.
Eliminator
When you know a choice is wrong, strike it. The remaining choices stay visible, so you can compare what is left. That is the on-screen version of crossing a letter out in a booklet. The reasoning is the same as process of elimination.
Masking
Masking covers choices so you can think before you read them. Use it when the choices are long and you want your own answer first, especially on Reading. It is not the same as the line reader, which keeps your place in the passage. Highlighter and line reader are in the highlighter and line reader. Enlarging the item is a third tool, in the magnifier.
The bottom line
Strike what is wrong. Hide the choices only when seeing them would pull you off your own answer.
Start practicing
Start with a free diagnostic, then drill your weak spots with 15-question quizzes and track how you're doing across Reading, English, and Math. Compare plans whenever you're ready to go further.
This article offers general ACT prep guidance. The ACT can change from year to year, including its format, scoring, policies, test dates, and fees, so always confirm the latest details on the official ACT website at act.org before you make decisions. ACT® is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. thirty-six is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by ACT.