ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

ACT Mathematics
Complete Study Guide
Every Topic. Every Formula. Every Concept.

Category Details
Test Duration 60 minutes
Number of Questions 60 questions
Question Format Multiple choice (5 options: A–E or F–K)
Calculator Policy Calculator permitted on all questions
Score Range 1–36 (composite math score)
Subscores Pre-Algebra / Elementary Algebra / Intermediate
Algebra / Coordinate Geometry / Plane
Geometry / Trigonometry

Page 1 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

1. Pre-Algebra
Pre-Algebra makes up approximately 23% of the ACT Math test (about 14 questions). These
questions test your understanding of basic numerical operations, fractions, decimals, percentages,
ratios, and introductory statistics. No algebra is required — only arithmetic reasoning and number
sense.

1.1 Integers and Number Types

An integer is any whole number, including negatives and zero: {..., -3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3, ...}
• Natural numbers: 1, 2, 3, 4, ... (positive whole numbers)
• Whole numbers: 0, 1, 2, 3, ... (includes zero)
• Integers: ..., -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, ... (includes negatives)
• Rational numbers: numbers expressible as a fraction p/q where q ≠ 0
• Irrational numbers: cannot be written as a fraction (e.g., pi, sqrt(2))
• Real numbers: all rational and irrational numbers

Key Number Properties

Even + Even = Even | Odd + Odd = Even
Even + Odd = Odd | Even x Odd = Even
Odd x Odd = Odd | Even x Even = Even
Negative x Negative = Positive
Positive x Negative = Negative
Zero x Any Number = 0 | Zero / Any Number = 0
Any Number / Zero = UNDEFINED

1.2 Order of Operations (PEMDAS)

When simplifying any expression, always follow this order:
• P — Parentheses (innermost first)
• E — Exponents (powers and roots)
• M/D — Multiplication and Division (left to right)
• A/S — Addition and Subtraction (left to right)

Example
Simplify: 3 + 2^2 x (5 - 1) / 2
Step 1 (Parentheses): 3 + 2^2 x 4 / 2

Page 2 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

Step 2 (Exponents): 3 + 4 x 4 / 2
Step 3 (Mult/Div L-R): 3 + 16 / 2 => 3 + 8
Step 4 (Add/Sub): 11

1.3 Fractions
Fractions represent parts of a whole. Mastery of fraction operations is essential for the ACT.

Addition and Subtraction

To add or subtract fractions, find a common denominator:

Fraction Addition/Subtraction
a/b + c/d = (ad + bc) / bd
a/b - c/d = (ad - bc) / bd

Example: 2/3 + 3/4 = (2x4 + 3x3) / (3x4) = (8+9)/12 = 17/12

Multiplication and Division

Fraction Multiplication/Division
Multiply: (a/b) x (c/d) = ac / bd
Divide: (a/b) / (c/d) = (a/b) x (d/c) = ad / bc
(Flip the second fraction and multiply)

Example: (2/3) / (4/5) = (2/3) x (5/4) = 10/12 = 5/6

Mixed Numbers and Improper Fractions

Conversion
Mixed to Improper: 2 3/4 => (2x4 + 3)/4 = 11/4
Improper to Mixed: 11/4 => 2 remainder 3 => 2 3/4

1.4 Decimals
Decimals are another way to express fractions. Understanding place value is key.
• Tenths place: 0.1 = 1/10
• Hundredths place: 0.01 = 1/100
• Thousandths place: 0.001 = 1/1000

Page 3 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

Decimal / Fraction Conversions

To convert a fraction to a decimal: divide numerator by denominator
3/8 = 3 / 8 = 0.375

To convert a terminating decimal to a fraction:

0.36 = 36/100 = 9/25

1.5 Percentages
Percent means 'per hundred.' All percentage problems can be solved with one formula:

Core Percentage Formulas

Part = Percent x Whole (find the part)
Percent = Part / Whole x 100 (find the percent)
Whole = Part / Percent (find the whole)

Percent Change = (New - Old) / Old x 100

If positive: percent increase
If negative: percent decrease

Example: A shirt costs $40 and is on sale for 25% off.

Discount = 25% x $40 = 0.25 x 40 = $10
Sale price = $40 - $10 = $30

1.6 Ratios and Proportions

A ratio compares two quantities. A proportion states that two ratios are equal.

Ratios and Proportions

Ratio: a:b or a/b

Proportion (cross-multiply to solve):

a/b = c/d => ad = bc

Example: If 3 apples cost $1.50, how much do 7 apples cost?

3/1.50 = 7/x
3x = 7 x 1.50 = 10.5
x = 10.5 / 3 = $3.50

Page 4 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

1.7 Absolute Value

Absolute Value Definition

|x| = x if x >= 0
|x| = -x if x < 0

|-7| = 7 |3| = 3 |0| = 0

Note: |x| = a has TWO solutions: x = a and x = -a

1.8 Factors, Multiples, and Primes

• Factor: a number that divides evenly into another (factors of 12: 1,2,3,4,6,12)
• Multiple: result of multiplying a number by an integer (multiples of 4: 4,8,12,16,...)
• Prime number: divisible only by 1 and itself (2, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19, ...)
• Composite number: has more than two factors
• GCF (Greatest Common Factor): largest factor shared by two numbers
• LCM (Least Common Multiple): smallest multiple shared by two numbers

GCF and LCM

GCF(12, 18): Factors of 12: 1,2,3,4,6,12 | Factors of 18:
1,2,3,6,9,18
GCF = 6

LCM(4, 6): Multiples of 4: 4,8,12,... | Multiples of 6: 6,12,...

LCM = 12

Shortcut: LCM(a,b) = (a x b) / GCF(a,b)

1.9 Mean, Median, Mode, and Range

Measures of Central Tendency

Mean (Average) = Sum of all values / Number of values
Median = Middle value when data is arranged in order
(If even count: average of two middle values)
Mode = Value that appears most frequently
Range = Maximum value - Minimum value

Example: Data set: {3, 7, 7, 10, 13}

Page 5 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

Mean = (3+7+7+10+13)/5 = 40/5 = 8

Median = 7 (middle value)
Mode = 7 (appears twice)
Range = 13 - 3 = 10

1.10 Probability

Basic Probability
P(Event) = Number of favorable outcomes / Total number of outcomes
P(Event) is always between 0 and 1 (0 = impossible, 1 = certain)
P(A or B) = P(A) + P(B) - P(A and B) [for overlapping events]
P(A and B) = P(A) x P(B) [for independent events]
P(Not A) = 1 - P(A)

Example: Rolling a fair die, P(even) = 3/6 = 1/2

Page 6 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

2. Elementary Algebra
Elementary Algebra accounts for approximately 17% of the ACT Math section (about 10 questions).
These questions test your ability to work with variables, simplify expressions, solve equations and
inequalities, and interpret and write algebraic representations.

2.1 Variables and Expressions

A variable is a letter representing an unknown quantity. An algebraic expression combines
numbers, variables, and operations.
• Term: a number, variable, or product of both (e.g., 5x, -3y^2, 7)
• Coefficient: the numerical factor of a term (in 4x, the coefficient is 4)
• Like terms: terms with the same variable(s) and exponent(s)

Combining Like Terms

3x + 5x = 8x
7y^2 - 2y^2 = 5y^2
4a + 3b + 2a - b = 6a + 2b (combine a-terms and b-terms
separately)

2.2 Distributive Property

Distributive Property
a(b + c) = ab + ac
a(b - c) = ab - ac

Examples:
3(x + 4) = 3x + 12
-2(y - 5) = -2y + 10
(x + 3)(x + 2) = x^2 + 2x + 3x + 6 = x^2 + 5x + 6

2.3 Solving Linear Equations

The goal is to isolate the variable. Perform the same operation on both sides of the equation.

Linear Equation Strategy

Step 1: Distribute and clear parentheses
Step 2: Combine like terms on each side

Page 7 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

Step 3: Move variable terms to one side

Step 4: Move constants to the other side
Step 5: Divide by the coefficient of the variable

Example: Solve 3(x - 2) + 4 = 2x + 7

3x - 6 + 4 = 2x + 7
3x - 2 = 2x + 7
x = 9

2.4 Solving Inequalities

Inequalities are solved like equations with one critical rule: when multiplying or dividing by a
negative number, flip the inequality sign.

Inequality Rules
Symbols: < (less than), > (greater than), <= <=, >= >=

Example 1: 2x + 3 < 11
2x < 8 => x < 4

Example 2: -3x >= 12

x <= -4 <-- FLIP the sign when dividing by -3 !

Graphing: open circle for < or >, closed circle for <= or >=

2.5 Evaluating Expressions

Substitute given values for variables and simplify using order of operations.

Example
If x = 3 and y = -2, evaluate 2x^2 - 3y + 1
= 2(3)^2 - 3(-2) + 1
= 2(9) + 6 + 1
= 18 + 6 + 1 = 25

2.6 Linear Equations with Two Variables

These equations can be solved as a system. Two equations are needed to solve for two unknowns.

Substitution Method

Page 8 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

Equation 1: y = 2x + 1
Equation 2: 3x + y = 16
Substitute y from Eq. 1 into Eq. 2:
3x + (2x + 1) = 16 => 5x + 1 = 16 => 5x = 15 => x = 3
Back-substitute: y = 2(3) + 1 = 7
Solution: (3, 7)

Elimination Method
Equation 1: 2x + 3y = 12
Equation 2: 4x - 3y = 6
Add the equations: 6x = 18 => x = 3
Substitute: 2(3) + 3y = 12 => 3y = 6 => y = 2
Solution: (3, 2)

2.7 Factoring
Greatest Common Factor (GCF) Factoring

Factor out the GCF

6x^2 + 9x = 3x(2x + 3)
4a^3 - 8a^2 + 12a = 4a(a^2 - 2a + 3)

Factoring Trinomials (ax^2 + bx + c)

Factoring x^2 + bx + c (when a = 1)

Find two numbers that multiply to c and add to b

x^2 + 7x + 12: need two numbers that multiply to 12 and add to 7

=> 3 x 4 = 12 and 3 + 4 = 7
=> (x + 3)(x + 4)

x^2 - 5x + 6: need two numbers that multiply to 6 and add to -5

=> -2 x -3 = 6 and -2 + (-3) = -5
=> (x - 2)(x - 3)

Special Factoring Patterns

Special Factoring Identities

Page 9 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

Difference of Squares: a^2 - b^2 = (a + b)(a - b)

Perfect Square Trinomial: a^2 + 2ab + b^2 = (a + b)^2
Perfect Square Trinomial: a^2 - 2ab + b^2 = (a - b)^2

Examples:
x^2 - 25 = (x + 5)(x - 5)
x^2 + 6x + 9 = (x + 3)^2
4x^2 - 12x + 9 = (2x - 3)^2

2.8 Solving Quadratic Equations

Methods to Solve Quadratics

Method 1 — Factoring:
x^2 - 7x + 12 = 0 => (x - 3)(x - 4) = 0 => x = 3 or x = 4

Method 2 — Quadratic Formula:

For ax^2 + bx + c = 0:
x = (-b +/- sqrt(b^2 - 4ac)) / 2a

Example: 2x^2 - 5x - 3 = 0 (a=2, b=-5, c=-3)

x = (5 +/- sqrt(25 + 24)) / 4 = (5 +/- 7) / 4
x = 12/4 = 3 or x = -2/4 = -1/2

Discriminant: b^2 - 4ac

> 0: two real solutions
= 0: one real solution (repeated)
< 0: no real solutions

Page 10 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

3. Intermediate Algebra
Intermediate Algebra comprises approximately 15% of the ACT Math test (about 9 questions).
Topics include advanced equation types, functions, matrices, sequences, and logarithms.

3.1 Functions
A function f(x) assigns exactly one output to each input. The domain is the set of valid inputs; the
range is the set of possible outputs.

Function Notation and Evaluation

f(x) means 'function of x' — input x, output f(x)

Example: f(x) = 3x^2 - 2x + 1

f(2) = 3(4) - 2(2) + 1 = 12 - 4 + 1 = 9
f(-1) = 3(1) - 2(-1) + 1 = 3 + 2 + 1 = 6

Composite Functions: (f o g)(x) = f(g(x))

If f(x) = x + 1 and g(x) = 2x, then (f o g)(x) = f(2x) = 2x + 1

3.2 Exponents and Exponential Functions

Exponent Rules
Product Rule: x^a * x^b = x^(a+b)
Quotient Rule: x^a / x^b = x^(a-b)
Power Rule: (x^a)^b = x^(ab)
Zero Exponent: x^0 = 1 (x ≠ 0)
Negative Exp.: x^(-a) = 1/x^a
Fractional Exp.: x^(1/n) = n-th root of x
x^(m/n) = (n-th root of x)^m

Examples:
2^3 * 2^4 = 2^7 = 128
(x^3)^2 = x^6
27^(2/3) = (cube root of 27)^2 = 3^2 = 9

3.3 Logarithms
A logarithm is the inverse of an exponential function.

Page 11 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

Logarithm Rules
Definition: log_b(x) = y <=> b^y = x
(b is the base, y is the exponent)

Common log: log(x) = log_10(x)

Natural log: ln(x) = log_e(x)

Product Rule: log_b(MN) = log_b(M) + log_b(N)

Quotient Rule: log_b(M/N) = log_b(M) - log_b(N)
Power Rule: log_b(M^k) = k * log_b(M)
Change of Base: log_b(x) = log(x) / log(b)

Example: log_2(8) = ? => 2^? = 8 => 2^3 = 8 => answer: 3

3.4 Radical Expressions

Radical Rules
sqrt(ab) = sqrt(a) * sqrt(b)
sqrt(a/b) = sqrt(a) / sqrt(b)
sqrt(a^2) = |a|

Simplifying: sqrt(72) = sqrt(36 * 2) = 6*sqrt(2)

Adding: 3*sqrt(2) + 5*sqrt(2) = 8*sqrt(2)
Rationalizing: 3/sqrt(5) = 3*sqrt(5)/5 (multiply by
sqrt(5)/sqrt(5))

3.5 Sequences and Series

Arithmetic Sequences
Pattern: each term differs by a constant 'd' (common difference)
nth term: a_n = a_1 + (n-1)d
Sum of n terms: S_n = n/2 * (a_1 + a_n) = n/2 * (2a_1 + (n-1)d)

Example: 3, 7, 11, 15, ... (d = 4, a_1 = 3)

10th term: a_10 = 3 + (9)(4) = 3 + 36 = 39

Geometric Sequences
Pattern: each term is multiplied by a constant 'r' (common ratio)

Page 12 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

nth term: a_n = a_1 * r^(n-1)

Sum of n terms: S_n = a_1(1 - r^n) / (1 - r) for r ≠ 1

Example: 2, 6, 18, 54, ... (r = 3, a_1 = 2)

5th term: a_5 = 2 * 3^4 = 2 * 81 = 162

3.6 Matrices (Basic Operations)

Matrix Operations
A matrix is a rectangular array of numbers.

Addition/Subtraction: add/subtract corresponding entries

[a b] + [e f] = [a+e b+f]
[c d] [g h] [c+g d+h]

Scalar Multiplication: multiply every entry by the scalar

3 * [1 2] = [3 6]
[3 4] [9 12]

Matrix Multiplication (2x2):

[a b] x [e f] = [ae+bg af+bh]
[c d] [g h] [ce+dg cf+dh]

Page 13 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

4. Coordinate Geometry
Coordinate Geometry accounts for approximately 15% of the ACT Math test (about 9 questions).
These problems involve the coordinate plane (x-y plane), graphing lines and parabolas, distance
and midpoint, and conic sections.

4.1 The Coordinate Plane

• x-axis: horizontal number line
• y-axis: vertical number line
• Origin: the point (0, 0)
• Quadrant I: (+, +) Quadrant II: (-, +) Quadrant III: (-, -) Quadrant IV: (+, -)

4.2 Distance and Midpoint Formulas

Distance and Midpoint

Given two points (x1, y1) and (x2, y2):

Distance = sqrt((x2 - x1)^2 + (y2 - y1)^2)

Midpoint = ((x1 + x2)/2 , (y1 + y2)/2)

Example: Points A(1, 2) and B(5, 6):

Distance = sqrt((5-1)^2 + (6-2)^2) = sqrt(16+16) = sqrt(32) =
4*sqrt(2)
Midpoint = ((1+5)/2, (2+6)/2) = (3, 4)

4.3 Slope

Slope Formula
Slope (m) = rise / run = (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)

Positive slope: line rises left to right

Negative slope: line falls left to right
Zero slope: horizontal line (y = constant)
Undefined slope: vertical line (x = constant)

Parallel lines have EQUAL slopes: m1 = m2

Page 14 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

Perpendicular lines: slopes are NEGATIVE RECIPROCALS: m1 * m2 = -1

4.4 Equations of a Line

Line Equation Forms

Slope-Intercept Form: y = mx + b
m = slope, b = y-intercept

Point-Slope Form: y - y1 = m(x - x1)

Use when given a point and slope

Standard Form: Ax + By = C

Finding the equation: Given slope m=2 and point (3, 5):
y - 5 = 2(x - 3) => y - 5 = 2x - 6 => y = 2x - 1

x-intercept: set y = 0 and solve for x

y-intercept: set x = 0 and solve for y (or just read b from y=mx+b)

4.5 Graphing Parabolas

A parabola is the graph of a quadratic function: y = ax^2 + bx + c or y = a(x - h)^2 + k.

Parabola Key Features

Standard form: y = ax^2 + bx + c
a > 0: opens upward (minimum) a < 0: opens downward (maximum)
Vertex x-coordinate: x = -b/(2a)
Vertex y-coordinate: substitute x back in
y-intercept: (0, c)

Vertex form: y = a(x - h)^2 + k

Vertex is at (h, k)
Axis of symmetry: x = h

Roots/x-intercepts: set y = 0, solve using factoring or quadratic

formula

Page 15 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

4.6 Circles in the Coordinate Plane

Equation of a Circle
Standard form: (x - h)^2 + (y - k)^2 = r^2
Center: (h, k) Radius: r

Example: (x - 3)^2 + (y + 1)^2 = 25

Center: (3, -1) Radius: 5

General form: x^2 + y^2 + Dx + Ey + F = 0

Complete the square to convert to standard form

4.7 Reflections, Translations, and Transformations

Graph Transformations (y = f(x) as the base)

Vertical shift up k: y = f(x) + k
Vertical shift down k: y = f(x) - k
Horizontal shift right h: y = f(x - h)
Horizontal shift left h: y = f(x + h)
Reflect over x-axis: y = -f(x)
Reflect over y-axis: y = f(-x)
Vertical stretch by a: y = a*f(x) (|a| > 1)
Vertical compression: y = a*f(x) (0 < |a| < 1)

Page 16 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

5. Plane Geometry
Plane Geometry is the largest single topic on the ACT Math test, comprising approximately 23% of
the exam (about 14 questions). These questions cover angles, triangles, polygons, circles, and
three-dimensional figures.

5.1 Lines and Angles

Angle Relationships
Complementary angles: sum = 90 degrees
Supplementary angles: sum = 180 degrees
Vertical angles: opposite angles formed by two intersecting lines —
EQUAL
Linear pair: adjacent supplementary angles — sum = 180 degrees

Parallel lines cut by a transversal:

Corresponding angles: EQUAL
Alternate interior angles: EQUAL
Alternate exterior angles: EQUAL
Co-interior (same-side) angles: SUPPLEMENTARY (sum = 180)

5.2 Triangles
Triangle Angle Sum

Triangle Basics
Sum of interior angles = 180 degrees
Exterior angle = sum of the two non-adjacent interior angles

Triangle Inequality: the sum of any two sides must be greater than
the third side
|a - b| < c < a + b

Types of Triangles
Type Definition Key Property
Equilateral All 3 sides equal All angles = 60°
Isosceles 2 sides equal Base angles are equal
Scalene No sides equal No angles equal

Page 17 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

Right One 90° angle Pythagorean theorem applies

Acute All angles < 90° c² < a² + b²
Obtuse One angle > 90° c² > a² + b²

Pythagorean Theorem

Pythagorean Theorem and Special Right Triangles

For any right triangle with legs a, b and hypotenuse c:
a^2 + b^2 = c^2

Common Pythagorean Triples (memorize these!):

3-4-5 (and multiples: 6-8-10, 9-12-15, 5-12-13, 8-15-17)

45-45-90 Triangle:
legs = x, hypotenuse = x*sqrt(2)
Example: legs = 5 => hypotenuse = 5*sqrt(2)

30-60-90 Triangle:
short leg = x, long leg = x*sqrt(3), hypotenuse = 2x
Example: short leg = 4 => long leg = 4*sqrt(3), hyp = 8

Triangle Area and Perimeter

Triangle Area
Area = (1/2) * base * height
(height must be perpendicular to the base)

Heron's Formula (when all three sides known):

s = (a + b + c) / 2 (semi-perimeter)
Area = sqrt(s(s-a)(s-b)(s-c))

Perimeter = a + b + c

5.3 Quadrilaterals
Shape Area Formula Perimeter / Special Properties
Square s² P = 4s; all angles 90°, all sides
equal
Rectangle l×w P = 2l + 2w; all angles 90°
Parallelogram base × height P = 2a + 2b; opposite sides

Page 18 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

parallel & equal

Rhombus (d₁ × d₂) / 2 All sides equal; diagonals bisect
at 90°
Trapezoid ½(b₁ + b₂) × h Exactly one pair of parallel sides

5.4 Circles

Circle Formulas
Circumference = 2*pi*r = pi*d
Area = pi*r^2

Arc Length = (theta/360) * 2*pi*r

theta = central angle in degrees

Sector Area = (theta/360) * pi*r^2

Inscribed Angle Theorem:

An inscribed angle = half the central angle that subtends the
same arc
Inscribed angle in a semicircle = 90 degrees

5.5 Three-Dimensional Figures

Figure Volume Surface Area
Rectangular Prism (Box) l×w×h 2(lw + lh + wh)
Cube s³ 6s²
Cylinder πr²h 2πr² + 2πrh
Cone ⅓πr²h πr² + πrl (l = slant height)
Sphere ⁴⁄₃πr³ 4πr²
Pyramid (rectangular base) ⅓lwh Base + ½(perimeter × slant
height)

5.6 Similarity and Congruence

Similar Triangles
Two triangles are similar if their corresponding angles are equal.
Corresponding sides are PROPORTIONAL.

Page 19 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

If triangles ABC and DEF are similar with ratio k:

Sides: ratio = k
Areas: ratio = k^2
Volumes: ratio = k^3 (for 3D figures)

AA Similarity: two pairs of equal angles => similar triangles

SAS Similarity: two proportional sides and included angle equal
SSS Similarity: all three pairs of sides proportional

Page 20 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

6. Trigonometry
Trigonometry accounts for approximately 7% of the ACT Math test (about 4 questions). While it is
the smallest section by question count, it often includes challenging problems. Topics include the
six trig functions, the unit circle, identities, and graphing.

6.1 Right Triangle Trigonometry

SOH-CAH-TOA
For a right triangle with angle theta, opposite side O, adjacent
side A, hypotenuse H:

sin(theta) = Opposite / Hypotenuse = O/H

cos(theta) = Adjacent / Hypotenuse = A/H
tan(theta) = Opposite / Adjacent = O/A

Reciprocal functions:
csc(theta) = 1/sin(theta) = H/O
sec(theta) = 1/cos(theta) = H/A
cot(theta) = 1/tan(theta) = A/O

Quotient identities:
tan(theta) = sin(theta)/cos(theta)
cot(theta) = cos(theta)/sin(theta)

6.2 Special Angle Values

Angle (°) Angle (rad) sin cos tan
0° 0 0 1 0
30° π/6 1/2 √3/2 1/√3 = √3/3
45° π/4 √2/2 √2/2 1
60° π/3 √3/2 1/2 √3
90° π/2 1 0 undefined
180° π 0 -1 0
270° 3π/2 -1 0 undefined
360° 2π 0 1 0

Page 21 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

6.3 The Unit Circle and Reference Angles

Signs of Trig Functions by Quadrant

Quadrant I (0 to 90): sin +, cos +, tan +
Quadrant II (90 to 180): sin +, cos -, tan -
Quadrant III (180 to 270): sin -, cos -, tan +
Quadrant IV (270 to 360): sin -, cos +, tan -

Memory aid: 'All Students Take Calculus'

All (Q1), Sin (Q2), Tan (Q3), Cos (Q4) are positive

Reference Angle: the acute angle formed with the x-axis

QII: reference angle = 180 - theta
QIII: reference angle = theta - 180
QIV: reference angle = 360 - theta

6.4 Trigonometric Identities

Key Trig Identities

Pythagorean Identities:
sin^2(x) + cos^2(x) = 1
1 + tan^2(x) = sec^2(x)
1 + cot^2(x) = csc^2(x)

Co-function Identities:
sin(x) = cos(90 - x) cos(x) = sin(90 - x)
tan(x) = cot(90 - x) sec(x) = csc(90 - x)

Even/Odd Identities:
sin(-x) = -sin(x) [odd]
cos(-x) = cos(x) [even]
tan(-x) = -tan(x) [odd]

6.5 Graphing Trig Functions

Sine and Cosine Graph Properties: y = A*sin(Bx + C) + D

Amplitude = |A| (height from midline to peak)
Period = 2*pi / |B| (length of one full cycle)
Phase Shift = -C / B (horizontal shift)
Vertical Shift = D (midline is y = D)

Page 22 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

y = sin(x): Period = 2*pi, Amplitude = 1, passes through (0,0)

y = cos(x): Period = 2*pi, Amplitude = 1, starts at (0,1)
y = tan(x): Period = pi, vertical asymptotes at x = pi/2 + n*pi

6.6 Law of Sines and Law of Cosines

Law of Sines (use when: AAS, ASA, or SSA)

a/sin(A) = b/sin(B) = c/sin(C)

Where a, b, c are side lengths opposite to angles A, B, C

Example: angle A = 40, angle B = 60, side a = 10

10/sin(40) = b/sin(60)
b = 10 * sin(60) / sin(40) ≈ 13.47

Law of Cosines (use when: SAS or SSS)

c^2 = a^2 + b^2 - 2ab*cos(C)
b^2 = a^2 + c^2 - 2ac*cos(B)
a^2 = b^2 + c^2 - 2bc*cos(A)

This generalizes the Pythagorean Theorem:

When C = 90, cos(C) = 0, so c^2 = a^2 + b^2

Page 23 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

7. Additional High-Yield Topics

The following topics appear across multiple ACT Math categories and are commonly tested.
Mastery of these concepts will help you earn points across many question types.

7.1 Word Problems Strategy

• Read the entire problem before starting calculations
• Identify what is being asked (the unknown)
• Assign variables to unknowns
• Set up an equation or system based on the given relationships
• Solve, then check that your answer makes sense in context
• Watch for 'trap' answers that reflect common algebraic mistakes

7.2 Rates, Work, and Mixture Problems

Rate Problems
Distance = Rate x Time => D = r*t
Solve for any variable: r = D/t or t = D/r

Average rate (for two legs of a trip):

Average rate = Total Distance / Total Time
(NOT the average of the two speeds!)

Work Problems
If person A can do a job in 'a' hours and person B in 'b' hours:
Time together = (a * b) / (a + b)

General: Rate of A + Rate of B = Rate together

1/a + 1/b = 1/t

Example: A finishes in 4 hrs, B in 6 hrs.

Time together = (4*6)/(4+6) = 24/10 = 2.4 hours

7.3 Counting Methods and Combinations

Counting Principles

Page 24 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

Fundamental Counting Principle:

If event A has m outcomes and B has n outcomes,
then A and B together have m x n outcomes.

Permutations (ORDER matters): P(n,r) = n! / (n-r)!

Selecting r items from n in a specific order

Combinations (ORDER does NOT matter): C(n,r) = n! / (r! * (n-r)!)

Also written as 'n choose r' or C(n,r)

Example: How many ways to choose 3 from 8?

C(8,3) = 8! / (3! * 5!) = (8*7*6) / (3*2*1) = 56

7.4 Imaginary and Complex Numbers

Complex Numbers
Imaginary unit: i = sqrt(-1)
i^2 = -1, i^3 = -i, i^4 = 1 (cycle repeats every 4)

Complex number: a + bi (a = real part, b = imaginary part)

Addition: (a + bi) + (c + di) = (a+c) + (b+d)i

Multiplication: (a + bi)(c + di) = (ac - bd) + (ad + bc)i

Complex conjugate of (a + bi) is (a - bi)

Division: multiply numerator and denominator by conjugate

Example: (2 + 3i)(1 - i) = 2 - 2i + 3i - 3i^2 = 2 + i + 3 = 5 + i

7.5 Sets and Venn Diagrams

Set Theory
Union (A or B): A U B — all elements in A or B (or both)
Intersection (A and B): A ∩ B — only elements in BOTH A and B
Complement (not A): A' — all elements NOT in A

Counting formula: |A U B| = |A| + |B| - |A ∩ B|

Page 25 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

Example: 30 students play sport; 20 play music; 8 play both

Total playing either sport or music = 30 + 20 - 8 = 42

7.6 Scientific Notation

Scientific Notation
Form: a x 10^n where 1 <= |a| < 10 and n is an integer

Converting to scientific notation:

0.00045 = 4.5 x 10^(-4) (moved decimal 4 places right)
63000 = 6.3 x 10^4 (moved decimal 4 places left)

Multiplying: (a x 10^m)(b x 10^n) = (ab) x 10^(m+n)

Dividing: (a x 10^m)/(b x 10^n) = (a/b) x 10^(m-n)

Page 26 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

8. ACT Math Test-Taking Strategies

8.1 Time Management

You have 60 minutes for 60 questions — exactly 1 minute per question on average. Use this
framework:
• Questions 1–20: Aim to spend 30–45 seconds each (these are easiest)
• Questions 21–40: Budget about 1 minute each
• Questions 41–60: Allow up to 90 seconds each (most difficult)
• If stuck on a question, mark it and move on — never leave a blank (no penalty for wrong
answers)
• Leave 2–3 minutes at the end to review marked questions

8.2 Calculator Usage Tips

• You are allowed to use a calculator on the entire ACT Math section
• Approved: scientific calculators, four-function calculators, graphing calculators
• NOT approved: calculators with CAS (Computer Algebra Systems), tablets, phones
• Don't rely on calculator for simple arithmetic — it wastes time
• Use calculator strategically for: square roots, trig functions, checking factoring

8.3 Process of Elimination and Backsolving

Backsolving Strategy
When a question asks for a specific numeric value and the answer
choices are numbers:
1. Start by testing answer choice C (or the middle value)
2. If C is too big, test B; if too small, test D
3. Plug the value into the problem and check if it works

This is especially useful for equations, inequalities, and word

problems
where setting up the algebra might be time-consuming.

Plugging In Strategy
When a question has variables in the answer choices:
1. Choose a simple number for the variable (e.g., x = 2 or x = 5)

Page 27 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

2. Solve the problem with that number to get a target answer

3. Substitute your number into each answer choice
4. The choice that matches your target is the answer

Tip: Avoid 0 and 1 (they cause multiple answers to match). Use

prime numbers.

8.4 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to flip the inequality sign when multiplying/dividing by a negative
• Confusing diameter with radius in circle problems
• Not squaring the radius in circle area (A = pi*r^2, not pi*d^2)
• Forgetting that the square root of x^2 is |x|, not just x
• Misidentifying the height in triangles (height must be perpendicular to base)
• Forgetting to distribute the negative sign: -(a - b) = -a + b
• Confusing similar triangles (proportional sides) with congruent triangles (equal sides)
• Misreading 'decreases by 20%' as multiplying by 0.20 instead of 0.80
• Solving for x but the question asks for 2x or x + 3 — always re-read what's asked

Page 28 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

9. Master Formula Reference Sheet

This quick-reference section consolidates the most frequently tested formulas. Review this sheet in
the days leading up to your exam.

Algebra

Core Algebra Formulas

Quadratic Formula: x = (-b +/- sqrt(b^2 - 4ac)) / 2a
Difference of Squares: a^2 - b^2 = (a + b)(a - b)
Perfect Square: (a + b)^2 = a^2 + 2ab + b^2
Perfect Square: (a - b)^2 = a^2 - 2ab + b^2
Slope: m = (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)
Slope-Intercept: y = mx + b
Point-Slope: y - y1 = m(x - x1)
Distance Formula: d = sqrt((x2-x1)^2 + (y2-y1)^2)
Midpoint Formula: ((x1+x2)/2, (y1+y2)/2)

Geometry

Core Geometry Formulas

Triangle Area: A = (1/2) * b * h
Pythagorean Theorem: a^2 + b^2 = c^2
Circle Area: A = pi * r^2
Circle Circumference: C = 2 * pi * r
Rectangular Prism Vol: V = l * w * h
Cylinder Volume: V = pi * r^2 * h
Cone Volume: V = (1/3) * pi * r^2 * h
Sphere Volume: V = (4/3) * pi * r^3
Sphere Surface Area: SA = 4 * pi * r^2

Trigonometry

Core Trig Formulas

SOH: sin = Opp/Hyp CAH: cos = Adj/Hyp TOA: tan = Opp/Adj
sin^2(x) + cos^2(x) = 1
tan(x) = sin(x)/cos(x)

Page 29 of 30
ACT Mathematics — Complete Study Guide | Comprehensive Reference

Law of Sines: a/sin(A) = b/sin(B) = c/sin(C)

Law of Cosines: c^2 = a^2 + b^2 - 2ab*cos(C)

Good luck on your ACT!

Practice consistently, review mistakes carefully, and trust your preparation.

Page 30 of 30