Old ACT forms are still useful for content. They are not useful as score predictors unless you trim them to enhanced counts and ignore the old clocks. English 75 / Math 60 / Reading 40 with Science in the Composite is a different exam. Treat a 2019 PDF as homework, then confirm pacing on a current form.
What to keep from an old test
- Grammar rules, algebra, geometry, and reading evidence
- Science figures if you will sit Science
- The habit of reviewing every miss the same day
Review method: how to review practice tests.
How to trim a legacy form
- English: do 50 items in 35 minutes, not 75 in 45. Skip the first ~25 if you want the harder back half—the opening items on old forms run easier.
- Math:do 45 items in 50 minutes. Remember today's Math has four choices, not five.
- Reading: do four single passages and 36 questions in 40 minutes. Drop paired-passage sets; the enhanced test does not use them.
- Science: optional. If you need it, 40 questions in 40 minutes is close to the old 40/35, so old Science is nearer to current than old English is.
Do not trust the old conversion table
A raw score on a 75-question English section is not a 2026 English score. Use a current enhanced table, or treat the sitting as unscaled practice. How to calculate a practice score. Comparing an old Composite that included Science to a new one that does not: legacy vs enhanced Composite.
When to put the old book away
Dress rehearsal two weeks out should be an official enhanced form. Ranked sources: best ACT practice tests in 2026, official vs third-party.
The bottom line
Old tests teach skills. Only a current timed form teaches today's pace. Trim, review, then remeasure on the test you will actually take.
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.