How many questions are on ACT math?

45 questions in 50 minutes on the enhanced ACT, each with four answer choices.

Is science still on the ACT?

Science is optional on the enhanced ACT. It is scored separately and doesn't count toward the Composite, which averages English, Math and Reading.

Can you use a calculator on the ACT?

Yes, on the whole Math section, as long as it is a permitted model. Calculators with computer algebra systems are not allowed.

Is there a formula sheet on the ACT?

No. You need to know the common formulas, such as area and volume, the Pythagorean theorem and slope.

Is ACT math harder than SAT math?

ACT Math covers a few more topics, such as matrices and more trigonometry, and gives less time per question. The SAT has longer word problems and a built-in graphing calculator.

Grades 10 to 12 · US · free

ACT math practice for the enhanced ACT

Practice for ACT Math in its current format: questions across algebra, functions, geometry, statistics and number, with hints and worked steps, a printable set with answers, and pacing tips for 45 questions in 50 minutes.

The format

Part	Time	What's in it
Math	50 minutes	45 multiple choice questions, four answer choices each. A calculator is allowed.
English and Reading	35 and 40 minutes	With Math, these make up the Composite score.
Science (optional)	40 minutes	Reported separately and combined with Math for a STEM score. It doesn't count toward the Composite.

The enhanced ACT started online in April 2025 and on paper in September 2025. Each section is scored from 1 to 36, and the Composite is the average of English, Math and Reading. There is no formula sheet, so students need to know the common formulas.

Printable practice paper

Fresh questions from every part of the exam each time you open it, with an answer key and worked steps. Print it, save it as a PDF, or do it on screen.

🖨️ Practice paper (24 questions)Quick 10 ✏️ On screen

Practice now

Question 1 of 100 correct

In a right triangle you know angle θ and the adjacent side. You want the opposite side. Which ratio should you use?

Print a worksheet with answers Share to Google ClassroomFree, no sign-up. Nothing you type is saved.

What ACT math covers

ACT Math covers what most students learn by the start of grade 12. The test reports scores in three groups: preparing for higher math, integrating essential skills, and modeling.

Number and quantity: real and complex numbers, exponents, radicals, vectors and matrices.
Algebra: linear, quadratic and polynomial equations, inequalities and systems.
Functions: notation, graphs, linear, quadratic, exponential and trigonometric functions.
Geometry: shapes, area and volume, congruence and similarity, circles, triangles and trigonometry.
Statistics and probability: data, averages, spread, and the probability of events.
Integrating essential skills: rates, percentages, proportional reasoning and multi-step problems from earlier grades.

Pacing: just over a minute a question

With 45 questions in 50 minutes, the average is about 66 seconds each. Questions roughly get harder as you go, so the first twenty should move quickly, leaving more time for the end. Don't let one question eat three minutes: guess, mark it and move on, because there is no penalty for wrong answers.

Formulas to know without a sheet

Slope, slope-intercept form and the distance and midpoint formulas.
The quadratic formula and how to factor simple quadratics.
Area of triangles, circles and trapezoids; volume of prisms, cylinders and cones.
Pythagorean theorem, special right triangles, and SOH-CAH-TOA.
Mean, median and mode, and basic probability.

A study plan

1Eight weeks beforeTake a timed practice test to see your starting score and which topics cost the most.
2Weeks 2 to 5Review the weakest two or three topics each week, with 20 to 30 practice questions per topic.
3Weeks 5 to 7Timed 50-minute math sections once a week. Practice the pacing and the guess-and-move-on habit.
4The last weekReview the formula list, light mixed practice, and rest.

Exam tips

Answer every question: blanks score nothing and guesses sometimes score.
Check that your calculator is on the ACT's permitted list before test day.
Draw a quick diagram for every geometry question that doesn't have one.
Back-solve from the answer choices when the algebra gets messy.

Practice by topic

Equations Exponents Functions: domain and range Pythagorean theorem Area Volume Statistics

Questions people ask

How many questions are on ACT math?: 45 questions in 50 minutes on the enhanced ACT, each with four answer choices.
Is science still on the ACT?: Science is optional on the enhanced ACT. It is scored separately and doesn't count toward the Composite, which averages English, Math and Reading.
Can you use a calculator on the ACT?: Yes, on the whole Math section, as long as it is a permitted model. Calculators with computer algebra systems are not allowed.
Is there a formula sheet on the ACT?: No. You need to know the common formulas, such as area and volume, the Pythagorean theorem and slope.
Is ACT math harder than SAT math?: ACT Math covers a few more topics, such as matrices and more trigonometry, and gives less time per question. The SAT has longer word problems and a built-in graphing calculator.

Format checked against: ACT: test enhancements; ACT: math test description. Updated November 2026.

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