Math Formulas for ACT

Few Formulas to Help you in ACT

The ACT  consists of four compulsory subject tests and an optional Writing section. These sections test the ability of a student for college-level admissions in the U.S and Canada. The four subject tests are: English, Mathematics, Science and Reading.

The Mathematics section of the test contains 60 multiple-choice questions that reflect the various aspects of Mathematics like algebra, trigonometry, geometry etc. Students should be well prepared with their mathematical formulas and equations before they answer this section. Formulas are important as they will help students answer the questions correctly. These formulas need to be understood and practiced.

How to Make the Most of Your List of Math Formulas:

  • Do not try to memorized the  math formulas just like that but what you should do instead is to keep practicing applying them in problems.
  • When you work on  Math sample tests, you will come across formulas that are generally required to solve the questions. Note these down to make your own list of formulas that you can refer to any time you want.
  • The list that you make may appear to be long and cumbersome but if you follow a systematic approach towards learning them, then you will realize just how simple it is to use them in solving the problems.
  • You have to make it a point to apply and learn all the formulas that are related to Mathematics. The test expects students to have the knack of solving sums and equations of high-school level with ease.
  • While most questions in the Mathematics section are singular and unrelated to each other, some questions may be grouped as they pertain to the same set of data or illustration provided. You have to gauge whether the questions require a formula in the first place or not. Some grouped questions are solved through mere logic than the use of a formula.
  • The best way to acquire a list of math formulas that will help you in the test is by solving the sample test given on the official website (www.act.org). By working on the practice exam, you will be able to learn some common formulas that may apply in the actual examination.

The official sample test is available at the link: http://www.act.org/aap/pdf/preparing.pdf.

The following is a list of a few common math formulas:

  • Circle: Its circumference is= 3.14 x diameter, The area of a circle = 3.14 x (radius)^2
  • Rectangle: Its perimeter = 2(length + width), Its area = length x width
  • Volume of a cuboid= length x width x height
  • Area of triangle=1/2*base*height
  • Average=total/number of parts of the total
  • Pythagoras theorem:, where a and b are sides containing the right angle and c is the hypotenuse of a right-triangle.
  • Quadratic equation when ax^2+bx+c =0 then x=-b±[√b²-4ac]/2a
  • (a+b)²= a²+2ab+b²

These are just a few important math formulas to give you some idea of what to expect in the test. You can also procure a detailed list from the following links: