When you're ready for college, the admissions process can be intimidating at best. With essays to write and testing to complete, it can be challenging. Some schools even ask that you take the ACT to help them evaluate your readiness for college material. For those who struggle with math, the idea can be anxiety-inducing. Don't let your math challenges hold you back from what you've been wanting. Here are a few tips to help you tackle the math portion with confidence.

Memorize and Understand The Formulas

Unlike some of the other exams, like the SAT, you won't be provided with the formulas you need to calculate things like area, circumference and other similar equations. Take time to study each formula and understand exactly why its structure works the way that it does. When you understand why a formula works, it's easier to remember the formula itself.

Use The Scratch Paper For Every Calculation

When you're already stressed about the exam and under pressure with a portion you're not particularly good at, you don't want to trust mental math. Don't try to do any of the math in your head. You'll be given scratch paper to work out answers. Use it. The ACT test doesn't give you partial credit for the right method but wrong calculation, so don't risk missing an answer because you inadvertently dropped a digit in your head.

Draw Out Visual Problems

When you're given a problem with a shape or a structure that you have to calculate, draw it out. Sometimes it is easier to see the relationship between the calculations when you're putting it on paper yourself. The same applies to word problems. If you're given a word problem, draw out the equation in its simplest form so that you can focus solely on the part that's important.

Eliminate The Problems You Know First

Remember that the math portion of the ACT is multiple choice. Ease the pressure in your mind by scanning every question before you start. If you know the answer to a question when you read it, answer it. That reduces the number you need to worry about as you move forward. Remember that the ACT is timed, so efficiency is as important as accuracy.

Don't let your own math difficulties hold you back from pursuing something you believe in and want to do. With these tips, you can prepare for and face the math portion of your ACT without anxiety.