Read the axis title and the unit before you describe the line. A rising line in the wrong unit is the wrong answer. Once you know what is plotted, trend language is in interpreting trends.
What to read first
The horizontal axis is the thing that was changed: days, temperature, concentration. The vertical axis is what was measured. “Percent” and “number of patients” are not the same claim. “Hours” and “days” will make a slope look different. If the question says “between 20°C and 40°C,” find those ticks before you trace the line.
Cutting the graph to that window is in the right figure and the right interval.
Tables use the same habit
A column header is an axis label in text. Check the unit in the header before you compare two cells. Chart reading on the Math section, which is the same discipline, is in charts and tables. A faster Science pass is in reading graphs faster.
The bottom line
Label, unit, then the line. Do not answer “it increased” until you can say what increased, and in what units.
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.