If you finish early, check marked items and bubbling first—do not stare at the clock. Sitting still with unused minutes is how a 34 becomes a 32.
Check, then sit
- Re-read items you flagged, not the ones you already liked.
- Confirm every bubble matches the booklet or screen.
- Do not rewrite a first answer unless you found a real error.
After a section that already went badly: bounce back. Careless-error work: stop careless mistakes.
If you never finish early
That is normal. Practice the last five minutes as a guess-and-move close, not a second draft. Pacing: time per question.
The bottom line
Early minutes are for flagged items and the grid. They are not for rereading the whole passage from line one.
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.