I'm studying for the ACT and having a hard time remembering all the Math formulas. Are there any good resources that compile these formulas into an easy to study format?
The ACT math section does cover a variety of formulas, but it's important to remember that a number of basic formulas are actually provided for you in the test instructions. So, don't stress out too much about having to memorize every single one!
That said, having a strong grip on key formulas can certainly make your test-taking experience smoother and faster. As far as finding a consolidated list of formulas goes, you could certainly look into ACT prep books or online resources. These often include cheat sheets or quick-reference guides that list out the most commonly needed formulas grouped by the math topic such as geometry, algebra, trigonometry, etc.
Here are some formulas you might find useful:
- Algebra: The quadratic formula, rules for exponents and roots, etc.
- Geometry: Basic area formulas for rectangles, circles, triangles, etc., Pythagorean theorem and trigonometric ratios (sin, cos, tan)
- Probability: The basic formula for probability (favorable outcomes / total outcomes)
However, let me stress again that knowing how to apply these formulas in context is just as, if not more important, than simply memorizing them. So, be sure to practice as many ACT-like math problems as possible and understand why certain formulas are applied in different scenarios. Good luck with your study!
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