You can raise your ACT Reading score by working on pacing first, then building accuracy: practice timed passages, learn to find evidence in the text, and review every miss to spot your recurring traps. Reading is one of the most coachable sections because the answer is always on the page, and that is good news.
Diagnose why you miss points
Reading mistakes usually fall into two buckets: you ran out of time, or you had time but chose the wrong answer. Track which one hurts you more. Pacing problems and accuracy problems need different fixes, and most students guess wrong about which one they have. Once you know, you can focus your energy where it will actually help.
Fix pacing with a per-passage budget
You get four passages in 40 minutes, about 10 minutes each. Practice hitting that budget so you never leave a passage blank. Our guide on how to finish ACT Reading on time breaks down minute-by-minute pacing.
Answer from evidence, not memory
The ACT rewards students who return to the passage. For every answer, find the specific line that proves it. This habit helps with the most common error: picking a choice that "sounds right" but isn't supported. It is especially powerful on inference questions.
Build a repeatable strategy
Decide your approach and use it on every passage, whether you read the passage first or skim questions first. Consistency lets you speed up. Compare methods in the best ACT Reading strategy and passage first vs questions first.
Practice with real passages and review hard
Volume helps when you review. After each timed set, reread every question you missed and name the trap. thirty-six gives you ACT-style reading passages with explanations so you can drill and review in one place. A few passages several times a week goes a long way.
Know your target jump
The path from 24 to 30 differs from 30 to 36, and that is okay. See improving ACT Reading from 24 to 30 and from 30 to 36 for level-specific tactics that match where you are right now.
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.