On paired Reading passages, finish Passage A and its own questions before you read Passage B. Save the comparison questions for last. Mixing the two authors too early is how you attribute a claim to the wrong passage. Passage types are in ACT Reading passage types.
A, then B, then both
Questions that cite only Passage A should be done while A is still fresh. Then read B and do B-only items. Comparison questions ask how the two writers differ or agree. Answer those from notes, not from a blended memory. Pivot words that mark a turn inside either passage are in pivot words.
You can still start the whole section with your strongest passage type. That order is in starting with your strongest passage. Dual-passage comparison in Science is a different section, in conflicting viewpoints.
The bottom line
Keep the authors separate until the question names both. Then compare.
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.
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