The digital ACT shows a timer for the section you are in. It warns you when five minutes are left, and you can hide the clock if watching it makes you rush. The tool sits with the others in digital ACT tools.
What the clock does
It counts down the section, not the whole test. Hiding it does not pause it. The five-minute warning still appears. Do not wait for a proctor to call time. On the digital test, the screen is the clock. How many seconds each question is worth is in ACT time per question.
The last five minutes
When the warning hits, stop starting brand-new hard items. Confirm every item has an answer, then return to flags if time is left. That sequence is in the last five minutes. A watch, if you want one as a backup, has its own rules in watches on the ACT.
The bottom line
Use the on-screen timer or hide it. Either way, the five-minute warning is your cue to close out the section.
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.