ACT Math tests Pre-Algebra, Elementary Algebra, Intermediate Algebra, Coordinate Geometry, Plane Geometry, and Trigonometry—reported as Preparing for Higher Math subcategories on score reports—with no calculus, no proof-based geometry, and no formula sheet on test day. Algebra and geometry dominate; trig and advanced topics are a small but score-critical tail.
Pre-Algebra and Elementary Algebra (~40–50% combined)
Fractions, percents, ratios, exponents, linear equations, inequalities, and basic word problems. These are the highest-frequency skills on every test. Hubs: how much algebra is on the ACT, linear equations, percent problems.
Intermediate Algebra and Functions (~25–30%)
Quadratics, systems, polynomials, function notation, transformations, and occasional logs or matrices. Guide: ACT Math functions. Hardest overlap: hardest ACT Math topics.
Coordinate and Plane Geometry (~25–35%)
Slope, distance, graphs, triangles, circles, polygons, area, volume, and 3D figures. No formal two-column proofs—applied diagrams only. Overview: how much geometry is on the ACT. Topic drills: polygons, lines and angles, solid geometry.
Trigonometry (~5–10%)
SOHCAHTOA, special right triangles, unit-circle values, and basic trig graphs—not a full precalc course. Start with right triangle trigonometry.
Statistics and probability (~10–15%)
Mean, median, mode, spread, probability, and reading data displays. Pillar: statistics and probability on ACT Math.
What is not worth heavy prep
Calculus, formal geometric proofs, heavy computation of standard deviation, and SAT-style grid-in formats. Memorize must-know formulas instead of expanding into college topics. For the full topic map with study links, see what math topics are on the ACT.
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