Excelling in the ACT English section requires a strong command of grammar, punctuation, word usage, and sentence structure. While the test may initially seem intimidating, it’s likely that you’re familiar with much of the content from your high school English classes. However, don't underestimate the unexpected challenges and twists from the test writers. Practice ACT English questions and passages as you prepare for the exam, and consider trying some practical strategies to boost your test-taking prowess.
| Usage/Mechanics | Rhetorical Skills |
|---|---|
| Usage and mechanics questions stand apart on the ACT, offering a unique challenge. Often described as "non-questions," they present grammatical alternatives for a text selection within a longer reading passage. Accompanied by the perennial option of "NO CHANGE," these questions unfold within passages varying from concise sentences to more extensive paragraphs. | Rhetorical skills questions go beyond the composition of a story, focusing instead on its deeper meaning. Initially, these questions may pose a challenge as they seem somewhat vague, potentially causing frustration. However, there are established methods to help students work through these questions. You can navigate and excel in mastering this specific question type with consistent practice. |
| Question Types: |
Question Types: |
Punctuation Questions
Punctuation questions require identifying and correcting misplaced, missing, or unnecessary punctuation marks. These include commas, apostrophes, colons, semicolons, dashes, periods, question marks, and exclamation points. Beyond testing punctuation rules, these questions also assess your ability to use punctuation effectively in expressing ideas. For instance, you may need to demonstrate how punctuation indicates possession or sets off a subordinate clause.
In many cases, the wording in all answer choices remains the same, while the placement of commas, semicolons, colons, periods, and other punctuation varies. It's important to carefully read each choice to discern the differences in punctuation, such as the presence or absence of commas or other punctuation marks.
Tips and Tricks to Ace Punctuation Questions
The test creators have been known to trip up students by slipping in basic — yet easily overlooked — punctuation errors. So be extra careful, and don't be tricked!
- Typically speaking, a comma should not precede a preposition. This rule has rare exceptions, but it is most likely an error if you see this on the ACT.
- When using colons, always follow them with a complete sentence; avoid using them after a fragment.
- If you want a simple way to fix a comma splice, swap it out with a semicolon.
Punctuation Question Examples
Entering a standardized test without preparation is a big risk. The more you're equipped with beforehand, the greater your odds of performing successfully.
Passage
Abstract Expressionism centers on freedom of expression and excludes representational subject matter. Of all the Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock is by far the most famous. Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision. The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works. Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other. Although his works are often not symmetrical, they almost always feel balanced. Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived. Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
[1] In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock. [2] Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used. [3] Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. [4] Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. [5] He was actively involved in his paintings, laying his canvases on the ground to view his work from every angle.
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works are to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings modified this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
1. This passage is from Jackson Pollock's White Light by Amberlee Clark (© 2017 by UWorld).
Question
The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works.
| A. NO CHANGE | ||
| B. color | ||
| C. color that which | ||
| D. color, it is this which |
Explanation:
The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color is evident in Pollock's works.
To determine the correct wordingand whether to use a comma ,locate the subject and verb:
-
"Use" functions as the subject of the sentence, not as a verb. The word "the" that comes before it indicates that "use" is being used as a noun.
-
The verb in the sentence is "is."
Usually, no commas separate the complete subject from the verb that begins the predicate. Also, adding additional words or punctuation would create a grammatically incorrect sentence.
(Choices A & D) Placing a comma after "color" followed by either "it" or "it is this which" would make "The…color" an introductory clause, but doing so would make the sentence awkward. Also, it might be unclear what is being referred to by "it."
(Choice C) Adding "that which" before "is" would mean that the verb is part of a dependent clause; however, the main sentence would then lack a verb, making it a fragment instead of a complete sentence.
Things to remember:
Sometimes words can function as either verbs or subjects. When determining whether to add extra wording or commas, see if doing so would make the sentence clear and grammatically correct.
Passage
Abstract Expressionism centers on freedom of expression and excludes representational subject matter. Of all the Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock is by far the most famous. Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision. The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works. Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other. Although his works are often not symmetrical, they almost always feel balanced. Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived. Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
[1] In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock. [2] Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used. [3] Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. [4] Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. [5] He was actively involved in his paintings, laying his canvases on the ground to view his work from every angle.
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works are to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings modified this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
1. This passage is from Jackson Pollock's White Light by Amberlee Clark (© 2017 by UWorld).
Question
In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock.
| A. NO CHANGE | ||
| B. Expressionist, the label Action Painter, | ||
| C. Expressionist the label, Action Painter | ||
| D. Expressionist the label Action Painter |
Explanation:
In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock.
Commas should be placed according to grammar rules, with the purpose of clarifying the meaning of a sentence.
This sentence begins with the introductory prepositional phrase "In…Expressionist." Grammar rules dictate that a comma should be placed after the introductory phrase to show where it ends and the independent clause (complete sentence) begins. No other commas are needed in the sentence to clarify meaning.
(Choice B) Commas placed after "Expressionist" and "Painter" would indicate the phrase "the label Action Painter" is information that could be deleted from the sentence. However, if this phrase were removed, it would be unclear what "applies" to Pollock.
(Choice C) Placing a comma after "label" would indicate that the introductory phrase ended there instead of after "Expressionist," which would make the resulting independent clause awkward.
(Choice D) Without any commas, it is unclear where the introductory phrase ends and the independent clause begins, making the meaning of the sentence difficult to understand.
Things to remember:
Commas should make the meaning of a sentence clear and should be placed based on specific grammar rules, like using a comma after an introductory clause.
Grammar and Usage Questions
At its core, grammar is the architect of sentences. When getting into ACT grammar practice, prioritize understanding sentence structure1 and sharpening your ability to spot syntax errors. Remember, 1 question can cover many grammar rules. For instance, a question about verbs might test when the action happened and if it matches the subject.
Tips and Tricks to Ace Grammar and Usage Questions
Think of English grammar like a puzzle, like math. There's a certain logic to it, just like solving math problems. The more ACT assessment practice tests you take, the better you get at it! For detailed help with the following tips, check out our 5 Grammar Rules You Need to Know to Ace the SAT® or ACT.
- Verb Tense Consistency: Use only one verb tense throughout a sentence; mixing tenses, like past and present, is incorrect.
- Apostrophes in Possessives and Contractions: Use apostrophes for possessives (before the “s” in singular, after “s” in plural) and contractions (where letters are omitted).
- Comma and Semicolon Usage: Use commas in lists to join independent clauses with FANBOYS or to add nonessential phrases; semicolons connect related independent clauses.
- Subject/Verb and Subject/Pronoun Agreement: Match verbs to the plurality of subjects; ensure pronouns accurately reflect the gender and number of their antecedents.
- Sentence Ordering and Contextual Usage: Understand formal vs. informal vocabulary for context; practice logical sentence ordering in paragraphs by regularly reading nonfiction articles.
Grammar and Usage Examples
When tackling grammar questions, the answer choices can give clues about the particular grammar rule being tested.
Passage
Abstract Expressionism centers on freedom of expression and excludes representational subject matter. Of all the Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock is by far the most famous. Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision. The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works. Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other. Although his works are often not symmetrical, they almost always feel balanced. Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived. Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
[1] In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock. [2] Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used. [3] Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. [4] Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. [5] He was actively involved in his paintings, laying his canvases on the ground to view his work from every angle.
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works are to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings modified this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
1. This passage is from Jackson Pollock's White Light by Amberlee Clark (© 2017 by UWorld).
Question
Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision.
| A. NO CHANGE | ||
| B. Pollocks' painting's | ||
| C. Pollock's paintings | ||
| D. Pollocks paintings |
Explanation:
Many of Pollock's paintings exemplify his unique style and artistic vision.
Use apostrophes to show possession. Look to see if there are two nouns in a row (ex. puppy house). If so, there's a good chance that the first noun needs an apostrophe (ex. puppy's house).
If there aren't two nouns in a row, chances are that the noun is plural, not possessive (ex. students talk).
In the sentence from the passage, the two nouns in a row are "Pollock's" and "paintings."
-
Because Pollock represents one person, the apostrophe comes before the "s."
-
Because "paintings" is followed by the verb "exemplify," it is a plural noun that does not require an apostrophe.
Therefore, "Pollock's paintings" is the best choice.
(Choice A) The apostrophe in this choice indicates that "paintings" possess something, but because it is followed by the verb "exemplifies" and not a noun, it is a plural noun that indicates more than one painting.
(Choice B) Because Pollock is only one person, the apostrophe should be placed before, not after, the "s." Also, "paintings" is plural, not possessive, so it does not require an apostrophe.
(Choice D) Pollock possesses his paintings, and therefore an apostrophe + "s" is needed after his name.
Things to remember:
Use apostrophes to show possession when there are two nouns in a row (ex. students' backpacks). No apostrophe is needed for a plural (indicating more than one) noun followed by a word other than a noun (ex. kids swim).
Passage
Abstract Expressionism centers on freedom of expression and excludes representational subject matter. Of all the Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock is by far the most famous. Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision. The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works. Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other. Although his works are often not symmetrical, they almost always feel balanced. Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived. Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
[1] In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock. [2] Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used. [3] Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. [4] Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. [5] He was actively involved in his paintings, laying his canvases on the ground to view his work from every angle.
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works are to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings modified this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
1. This passage is from Jackson Pollock's White Light by Amberlee Clark (© 2017 by UWorld).
Question
Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
| A. NO CHANGE | ||
| B. as a creation of | ||
| C. as creating | ||
| D. to create |
Explanation:
Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably to create a harmonious effect.
The correct wording will not only be grammatically correct but also clear to the reader. Read the sentence with each of the answer choices. The one that makes the meaning clear is the infinitive "to create" because it expresses Pollock's intent or reason ("harmonious effect") for joining the colors together "naturally and comfortably."
The phrase ("_____ a harmonious effect") is used as an adverb to describe the result of "joining [colors] together." Because infinitive phrases can function as adverbs, "to create" is also the grammatically correct choice.
(Choice A) To use "creating" after "comfortably," a comma would be needed between these two words, similar to how the words "proportionally" and "joining" are separated by a comma earlier in the sentence.
(Choice B) The phrase "as a creation of" would indicate that the harmonious effect created the colors, which is incorrect. The joining of the colors creates the harmonious effect.
(Choice C) When you substitute the phrase "as creating" into the sentence, the meaning is unclear because it does not show that the harmonious effect is the reason for the joining of the colors.
Things to remember:
Infinitives are verbs that start with "to" (ex. to go, to walk, to dream), and they are used as descriptive phrases in sentences.
Sentence Structure Questions
Sentence structure questions explore how different parts of a sentence cooperate — figuring out where to add modifiers and how to connect various clauses. You may need to consider using commas or know when to leave them out, and decisions like this can create challenges such as run-on sentences or sentence fragments.
Tips and Tricks to Ace Structure Questions
The ACT English often includes answer choices that are redundant or wordy. These options can be tempting because they may seem to provide more information, but they can be incorrect or weaken the clarity of the sentence.
- Avoid choosing sentence fragments or run-on sentences.
- Consider the entire sentence carefully.
- Reread the sentence while plugging in your chosen answer. Does it fit well in the context of the passage?
- Make sure any transitional sentences connect ideas from the current paragraph and the preceding or following 1.
Sentence Structure Examples
These questions assess the entirety of a sentence, evaluating structural skills such as clause relationships, parallelism, and the placement of modifiers.
Passage
Abstract Expressionism centers on freedom of expression and excludes representational subject matter. Of all the Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock is by far the most famous. Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision. The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works. Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other. Although his works are often not symmetrical, they almost always feel balanced. Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived. Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
[1] In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock. [2] Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used. [3] Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. [4] Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. [5] He was actively involved in his paintings, laying his canvases on the ground to view his work from every angle.
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works are to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings modified this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
1. This passage is from Jackson Pollock's White Light by Amberlee Clark (© 2017 by UWorld).
Question
Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used.
| A. NO CHANGE | ||
| B. paintings, and he | ||
| C. paintings, which | ||
| D. paintings, |
Explanation:
Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, and he often actively handled the paint he used.
Two independent clauses (complete sentences) can be joined by a comma followed by a FANBOYS conjunction.
The independent clauses ("Pollock…paintings" and "he…"used"), can be combined by placing a comma at the end of the first independent clause (complete sentence) and a FANBOYS conjunction before the second independent clause.
(Choice A) Placing a comma after "paintings" and before "he" without a FANBOYS conjunction creates an error called a comma splice (Incorrect = Jill moved away, her friend was sad. Correct with FANBOYS = Jill moved away, so her friend was sad.)
(Choice C) Adding "which" would begin an adjective clause that would describe the noun "paintings"; however, "he often actively handled" seems to be describing Pollock instead of the paintings.
(Choice D) This choice could be correct if the verb was "handling" and began a participle phrase. However, because "handled" functions as a verb, the result is confusing without a subject.
Things to remember:
Two independent clauses joined by a FANBOYS conjunction require a comma after the first sentence before the conjunction.
Passage
Abstract Expressionism centers on freedom of expression and excludes representational subject matter. Of all the Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock is by far the most famous. Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision. The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works. Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other. Although his works are often not symmetrical, they almost always feel balanced. Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived. Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
[1] In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock. [2] Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used. [3] Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. [4] Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. [5] He was actively involved in his paintings, laying his canvases on the ground to view his work from every angle.
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works are to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings modified this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
1. This passage is from Jackson Pollock's White Light by Amberlee Clark (© 2017 by UWorld).
Question
Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived.
| A. NO CHANGE | ||
| B. since | ||
| C. whereas | ||
| D. and |
Explanation:
Harmony refers to repetition, and Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived.
Two independent clauses (complete sentences) joined by a comma require a conjunction between them. Using the correct conjunction helps indicate the relationship between the two sentences it joins.
In this case, the first independent clause discusses "harmony" and "repetition." The second independent clause ("Pollock…derived") discusses repetition in more detail, relating it specifically to how Pollock "repeats foundational colors" in his paintings. The conjunction "and" is used to relate similar ideas or to add more information, making "and" the best choice for this sentence.
(Choice A) "When" often indicates time (ex. Today is when I will go), or it could mean "considering that" (ex. Why eat all the Halloween candy when you can save it?). Neither of these meanings works in the context of the passage.
(Choice B) "Since" can mean "because" (ex. James can't afford a new car since he is broke) or "a time in the past" (ex. Ana has loved ice cream ever since she can remember). However, the reason Pollock uses color is not because it refers to repetition or to a time in the past.
(Choice C) "Whereas" often shows a contrast and can mean "although." (ex. You like comedies whereas I like dramas). In the passage, Pollock's use of color is given as an example to support, not to contrast, the idea that "harmony refers to repetition."
Things to remember:
When joining two independent clauses, choose the conjunction that most accurately shows the relationship between the independent clauses before and after it.
Strategy Questions
Strategy questions evaluate your ability to refine a topic by selecting phrases or words that align with the passage's purpose and audience. Assess the impact of revising, deleting sentences, or adding new ones, considering how each sentence aligns with the audience, purpose, and focus of a paragraph in the essay.
Tips and Tricks to Ace Strategy Questions
A frequently used tactic in ACT English is to rely on how the answer "sounds" correct, akin to "listening" for errors. While this method can help spot some apparent mistakes, the test may exploit this strategy with tricky answer choices that do not “sound” incorrect. Many questions involve constructions commonly misused in spoken English. Although they may sound right, it is important to approach them with intent and select the correct answer.
- When dealing with "Yes/No" questions, eliminate answer choices based on reasoning first.
- Concentrate on whether the underlined text is relevant to the topic.
Strategy Question Examples
Passage
Abstract Expressionism centers on freedom of expression and excludes representational subject matter. Of all the Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock is by far the most famous. Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision. The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works. Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other. Although his works are often not symmetrical, they almost always feel balanced. Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived. Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
[1] In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock. [2] Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used. [3] Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. [4] Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. [5] He was actively involved in his paintings, laying his canvases on the ground to view his work from every angle.
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works are to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings modified this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
1. This passage is from Jackson Pollock's White Light by Amberlee Clark (© 2017 by UWorld).
Question
Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
The writer is considering revising the preceding part of this sentence ("Pollock combines color proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably") to read as follows:
Pollock uses colors,
If the writer did this, the essay would primarily lose:
| A. an indication that Jackson Pollock preferred color over creating shapes. | ||
| B. a point of clarification because the proposed revision would not identify the colors being used. | ||
| C. additional details about the colors that are provided by the current sentence. | ||
| D. information that emphasizes abstract art's need for defined structure discussed throughout the passage. |
Explanation:
Pollock uses colors, Pollock combines color proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
To determine what would be lost if a sentence is revised, look to see what information is different in the new version. In this case, the verb changes from the more specific "combines" to the more general "uses."
Also, several words are deleted: "proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably." These words are used to describe how the colors come together to create "a harmonious effect." In other words, they provide "additional details about the colors that are provided by the current sentence."
(Choice A) The deleted words refer only to color, not to shapes. As a result, it is not possible for them to indicate whether "Jackson Pollock preferred color over creating shapes."
(Choice B) The deleted words describe how Pollock uses colors, but do not identify any of the specific colors that Pollock uses.
(Choice D) The previous paragraph discusses how Pollock avoided creating shape or structure; also, abstract art is unstructured by nature. Therefore, the need for structure isn't discussed throughout the passage.
Things to remember:
When text is revised from specific ideas to more general ideas, determine what function the details serve, and choose the answer that most closely matches their purpose in the sentence.
Passage
Abstract Expressionism centers on freedom of expression and excludes representational subject matter. Of all the Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock is by far the most famous. Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision. The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works. Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other. Although his works are often not symmetrical, they almost always feel balanced. Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived. Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
[1] In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock. [2] Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used. [3] Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. [4] Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. [5] He was actively involved in his paintings, laying his canvases on the ground to view his work from every angle.
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works are to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings modified this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
1. This passage is from Jackson Pollock's White Light by Amberlee Clark (© 2017 by UWorld).
Question
Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result.
| A. NO CHANGE | ||
| B. and it would work so that | ||
| C. while | ||
| D. DELETE the underlined portion. |
Explanation:
Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, while at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result.
When "DELETE the underlined portion" is a choice, read the sentence without the underlined part to see if it makes sense. In this case, eliminating the underlined part would create an error called a comma splice.
Therefore, some kind of transition after the comma is needed. Substitute each of the remaining answer choices into the sentence to see which one connects the ideas before and after it. In this sentence, "while" means "on the other hand" and can be used as a conjunction to show the relationship between the sentence about Pollock utilizing a stick and the sentence about him pouring paint from a can.
(Choice A) Adding "one tool that" creates a really long fragment because the verb "poured" is no longer the main verb in the second sentence but rather a verb that is part of the clause starting with "that."
(Choice B) This choice, "and it would work so that," is grammatically correct; however, it is much more wordy than the correct answer, "while." When choosing between two answers that would both work, usually the shorter one is correct.
(Choice D) Deleting the underlined part of the sentence would cause a comma splice (ex. Incorrect = You call the help desk, I'll reboot the computer. Correct = You call the help desk while I reboot the computer).
Things to remember:
Delete information only if the sentence makes sense without it. Place a conjunction between two independent clauses (complete sentences) joined by a comma to make the sentence grammatically correct.
Organization Questions
Organizational questions assess your ability to arrange ideas effectively. The exam might ask you to determine the correct order for sentences or paragraphs, where to add a sentence or paragraph, or which sentence or paragraph to remove to improve a paragraph.
Tips and Tricks to Ace Organization Questions
- The best way to approach this type of question is to consider all the answer options.
- Determine the most logical place for a sentence in a paragraph.
- Coherence is about ensuring that each sentence builds on the previous one in terms of content.
Organization Question Examples
Passage
Abstract Expressionism centers on freedom of expression and excludes representational subject matter. Of all the Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock is by far the most famous. Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision. The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works. Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other. Although his works are often not symmetrical, they almost always feel balanced. Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived. Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
[1] In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock. [2] Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used. [3] Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. [4] Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. [5] He was actively involved in his paintings, laying his canvases on the ground to view his work from every angle.
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works are to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings modified this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
1. This passage is from Jackson Pollock's White Light by Amberlee Clark (© 2017 by UWorld).
Question
Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two.
Which choice most effectively concludes this sentence and leads into the information that follows in the paragraph?
| A. NO CHANGE | ||
| B. Pollock never worried about how people would judge his unusual techniques. | ||
| C. usually, he did not use traditional paintbrushes to create his artwork. | ||
| D. flicking it onto the canvas, Pollock allowed the paint to guide him. |
Explanation:
Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: flicking it onto the canvas, Pollock allowed the paint to guide him. Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two.
To effectively conclude a sentence, the information must logically follow the idea(s) presented earlier in that sentence and set up the information that comes after it.
| Information Before | Information After |
|---|---|
|
How Pollock applied paint: |
Pollock created a "symbiotic" relationship between the two [his hand and the paint]": |
| Correct Connection | |
| "Flicking it onto the canvas [the way he applied the paint], Pollock allowed the paint to guide him [introduces the relationship between the paint and Pollock]." | |
(Choice A) The part about using a stick and pouring paint from the can could be considered "the tools he used" and could effectively conclude the sentence. However, the idea that his tools were secondary to (not as important as) the result does not lead into the idea about "a symbiotic relationship" in the next sentence.
(Choice B) Whether Pollock worried about people judging his techniques is not related to how he applied the paint, from earlier in the sentence, or to the relationship between Pollock and the paint, presented in the next sentence.
(Choice C) Not using traditional paintbrushes could relate to how Pollock applied his paint, from the beginning of the sentence, but it does not connect to the relationship between Pollock and the paint, discussed in the following sentence.
Things to remember:
An effective conclusion for a sentence will relate to the ideas in the sentences before and after it.
Passage
Abstract Expressionism centers on freedom of expression and excludes representational subject matter. Of all the Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock is by far the most famous. Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision. The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works. Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other. Although his works are often not symmetrical, they almost always feel balanced. Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived. Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
[1] In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock. [2] Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used. [3] Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. [4] Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. [5] He was actively involved in his paintings, laying his canvases on the ground to view his work from every angle.
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works are to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings modified this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
1. This passage is from Jackson Pollock's White Light by Amberlee Clark (© 2017 by UWorld).
Question
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works is to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings achieved this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
If the writer were to delete the underlined sentences, the paragraph would primarily lose:
| A. a reference to the belief that Pollock's painting was not the result of any particular artistic skill. | ||
| B. a description of the artistic elements that make Pollock's artwork unappealing to a wide audience. | ||
| C. a contrast between a general belief about abstract art and a detailed analysis of Pollock's work. | ||
| D. an explanation of how people misconstrue how difficult it is to create intensely emotional artwork. |
Explanation:
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works is to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings achieved this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
When you delete (remove) sentences, you lose ideas. To determine what ideas from the paragraph will be lost, analyze the sentences to be deleted to see what they're talking about. The first sentence indicates the controversial (causing opposing views) nature of Pollock's work and is followed by a sentence that furthers the idea by describing that some people believe that abstract art is simply throwing "paint on a canvas," implying that it takes no real skill to do so.
Without these two sentences, the paragraph would only discuss why Pollock is a pioneer and how his works "evoke emotion." Therefore, deleting these sentences would eliminate "a reference to the belief that Pollock's painting was not the result of any particular artistic skill."
(Choice B) The indicated sentences neither give details about the artistic elements Pollock used in his painting nor describe why "Pollock's artwork [is] unappealing to a wide audience."
(Choice C) The second deleted sentence discusses "a general belief about abstract art," but neither of the sentences to be deleted provide "a detailed analysis of Pollock's work."
(Choice D) One of the sentences explains "how people misconstrue (wrongly interpret) how difficult it is to create" abstract art, but neither says anything about how hard it is to create "intensely emotional artwork."
Things to remember:
Match the content of the deleted sentences to the answer choice that best describes what information will be lost if they are deleted from the paragraph.
Style Questions
ACT English questions also focus on selecting the optimal answer not solely based on grammatical accuracy but instead on style or tone.
On the ACT English test, you'll frequently encounter a phrase or sentence that isn't technically grammatically incorrect but is confusing, wordy, or poorly constructed. Your task in these situations is to assist the writer in refining their style.
Tips and Tricks to Ace Style Questions
Sometimes, you may need to change a word or phrase that clashes with the essay's tone. You may also need to eliminate ambiguous pronoun references, redundant material, or awkward expressions.
- Be aware of the writing style used in each passage.
- Read the sentences before and after the sentence in question. Note the style and tone of the paragraph in question.
- "Listen" to the sentence in your mind. When addressing style-related questions, concentrate on how the entire sentence flows. Pay attention to any unnecessary or omitted words, as well as the arrangement of the words.
Style Question Examples
Passage
Abstract Expressionism centers on freedom of expression and excludes representational subject matter. Of all the Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock is by far the most famous. Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision. The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works. Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other. Although his works are often not symmetrical, they almost always feel balanced. Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived. Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
[1] In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock. [2] Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used. [3] Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. [4] Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. [5] He was actively involved in his paintings, laying his canvases on the ground to view his work from every angle.
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works are to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings modified this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
1. This passage is from Jackson Pollock's White Light by Amberlee Clark (© 2017 by UWorld).
Question
Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Which choice most effectively concludes this sentence and leads into the information that follows in the paragraph?
| A. NO CHANGE | ||
| B. from | ||
| C. on | ||
| D. by |
Explanation:
Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Prepositions are used along with words that come before and after them to specify meaning. Prepositions often have more than one meaning, so you have to think about which meaning would fit best in the context of the sentence.
In this case, "over" means "more than" to correctly indicate that, without a doubt, "lines…dominate (influence, control) more than form (shape)."
(Choice B) "From" indicates a starting point (ex. I have come from Dallas). Based on the context, there is no indication that "line" starts from "form."
(Choice C) "On" indicates a location (ex. Put it on the table). However, the verb "dominates" before the preposition does not work with "on" because it is not possible to dominate on something, and it does not indicate a location.
(Choice D) "By" can mean "through" or "the reason that" (ex. It happened by luck). But the sentence from the passage does not indicate that "line" happened because of "form."
Things to remember:
Use the context words before and after the preposition to determine which answer choice best reflects the meaning being indicated.
Passage
Abstract Expressionism centers on freedom of expression and excludes representational subject matter. Of all the Abstract Expressionists, Jackson Pollock is by far the most famous. Many of Pollock's paintings' exemplify his unique style and artistic vision. The full use of intense, bright, and high-valued color, it is evident in Pollock's works. Also, he often intentionally keeps from creating shapes because, in his work, lines undoubtedly dominate over form.
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other. Although his works are often not symmetrical, they almost always feel balanced. Harmony refers to repetition, when Pollock repeats foundational colors (red, yellow, blue, white, and black) from which all other values and hues are derived. Pollock combines colors proportionally, joining them together naturally and comfortably creating a harmonious effect.
[1] In addition to Abstract Expressionist, the label Action Painter definitely applies to Pollock. [2] Pollock often talked about being "in" his paintings, he often actively handled the paint he used. [3] Sometimes Pollock utilized a stick, one tool that at other times he carefully poured paint straight from the can to apply his paint with a gesture: the tools he used were secondary to the result. [4] Likewise, he used a practiced hand to direct the paint, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. [5] He was actively involved in his paintings, laying his canvases on the ground to view his work from every angle.
Pollock's work will likely always be controversial. Many people believe that anyone can throw paint on a canvas to make abstract art. However, no one thought to throw paint on a canvas before Pollock and that makes him a pioneer. The goal of these artistic works are to evoke emotion, and many of his paintings modified this goal, capturing the spirit of exhilaration and intensity through his use of line, color, balance, and harmony.
1. This passage is from Jackson Pollock's White Light by Amberlee Clark (© 2017 by UWorld).
Question
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings, balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other.
If the writer were to delete the underlined sentences, the paragraph would primarily lose:
| A. NO CHANGE | ||
| B. paintings: balance and harmony ensure | ||
| C. paintings; ensuring balance and harmony that | ||
| D. paintings, to ensure balance and harmony: |
Explanation:
Pollock uses two main design principles to strengthen his paintings: balance and harmony ensure no one side carries greater weight than the other.
Colons can indicate that what follows is additional information to further explain or describe the idea that comes before (ex. She wants one thing for her new home: a pool).
In this sentence, "balance and harmony" further explains the "two main design principles" in Pollock's paintings. Because the information that follows a colon can be either a phrase or independent clause (complete sentence), it is the grammatically correct punctuation mark to use.
(Choice A) A comma after "paintings" creates an error known as a comma splice because both "Pollock…paintings" and "balance…other" are independent clauses (complete sentences).
(Choice C) A semicolon is used to join two independent clauses (complete sentences). However, "ensuring balance and harmony that" would set up a dependent clause that would require a comma instead of a semicolon.
(Choice D) The phrase "to ensure balance and harmony" would set up a second independent clause. However, to do so, the correct punctuation would require a semicolon, not a comma, after "paintings" and another comma instead of the colon.
Things to remember:
Colons can be used after independent clauses to indicate that additional information follows that further explains or describes the idea(s) being presentend.
Key Takeaways
Mastering the ACT English section, with its 50 questions in 35 minutes, involves a strong foundation in grammar, punctuation, word usage, and sentence structure. Hence, a full-length ACT practice test can help you know where you stand. Here are key points to remember:
- A strong grasp of grammar, punctuation, word usage, and sentence structure is essential for success in ACT English.
- Usage/Mechanics questions often present grammatical alternatives within longer passages, requiring careful consideration.
- Rhetorical skills questions delve into the deeper meaning of passages, demanding a nuanced understanding.
- Practical tips and strategies, such as listening for errors and considering context, are valuable for approaching ACT English questions effectively.
References
¹(2024). ACT English Test Tips. ACT.org. Retrieved from https://www.act.org/content/act/en/students-and-parents/high-school-success/testing-advice-for-the-act/act-english-test-tips.html
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