ACT English questions split into two groups: usage/mechanics (punctuation, grammar, sentence structure) and rhetorical skills (strategy, organization, style). Once you recognize which type you're facing, you'll know whether to apply a rule or make a judgment call.
Punctuation questions
These test commas, semicolons, colons, dashes, and apostrophes. The fix is rule-based: identify clause boundaries and apply the correct mark. See punctuation rules to memorize.
Grammar and usage questions
Subject-verb agreement, verb tense, pronoun agreement, and modifier placement. Each has a clear right answer once you know the rule, covered in the grammar rules tested on the ACT.
Sentence structure questions
These ask you to fix run-ons, fragments, and comma splices. You'll join or separate clauses correctly using periods, semicolons, or conjunctions.
Concision and word choice
Many questions ask for the clearest, least redundant phrasing. When meaning is equal, the shortest grammatical answer usually wins. Full guide: redundancy and wordiness. Wrong-word meaning (not just tone): word choice and diction errors. Watch for "DELETE the underlined portion" options; they're often correct when the text is redundant.
NO CHANGE answers
When the underlined portion is already correct, NO CHANGE wins—but only after you prove every alternative is wrong. See ACT English NO CHANGE answers.
Rhetorical skills questions
These test transitions, adding or deleting sentences, logical order, and whether a sentence fits the author's purpose. Read the surrounding context and ask what the paragraph is trying to accomplish.
Guides for the trickiest types
Rhetorical types worth their own guides:
- Add/delete questions
- Relevance questions
- Word choice and formality
- Transition questions
- Redundancy and wordiness
- Macro-logic questions
- Author intent questions
Practice by type
Sort your missed questions by these categories to see where you're losing points. Then drill that type on thirty-six's concept quizzes. For an efficient overall plan, see how to improve your ACT English score quickly.
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.