The ACT Math Test is a core section of the ACT exam and plays a major role in determining a student’s overall score. For many students, math is also the most challenging part of the test due to time pressure and the wide range of topics covered.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the ACT Math section, including format, topics, scoring, and proven preparation strategies.

• Number of questions: 60
  
• Time limit: 60 minutes
  
• Calculator: Allowed
  
• Average time per question: 1 minute
  

• Algebra (linear equations, inequalities, functions)
  
• Geometry (angles, triangles, circles)
  
• Coordinate geometry
  
• Trigonometry basics
  
• Matrices and logarithms
  

• Percentages and ratios
  
• Probability
  
• Statistics and data interpretation
  
• Number properties
  
• Word problems
  

• Distance, rate, and time problems
  
• Real-life graphs and charts
  
• Financial math scenarios
  

• Questions 1–20: Easy to medium
  
• Questions 21–40: Medium
  
• Questions 41–60: Hard and time-consuming
  

• ACT Math is scored on a scale of 1–36
  
• It contributes directly to your composite ACT score
  
• Competitive colleges often look for Math scores of 28+, while top universities may expect 30–34
  

• Junior year (first attempt)
  
• Early senior year (retake if needed)