You do not have to read ACT Reading in printed order. Start with the passage type you finish fastest, then spend leftover time on the one you dread. The four types and their usual order on the page are in ACT Reading passage types.
Bank time, then pay it out
If natural science is easy for you, do it first even if it is last in the booklet. A clean first passage calms the clock. Save prose fiction for later if it always runs long. Skipping a whole passage is a different, last-resort move, in whether to skip a passage.
Paired passages should still be done as a pair once you choose them. That method is in paired passages. Passage first versus questions first is in passage first or questions first.
The bottom line
Printed order is not required. Start where you score, then return to the slow passage with time in the bank.
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.