the book
Maximizing
the ACT
The strategy guide for Texas families
Written by the founder of Houston ACT Prep, who took himself to a 36 and his son to a 35 with one focused, section-by-section plan, not a stack of generic study guides.
Why the ACT
Most Texas families default to the SAT without ever asking whether it's the right test.For many students, the ACT is the smarter choice.
More predictable than the SAT, section to section.
Still offered on paper, if that's how your student tests best.
A calculator allowed on every single math question.
Three section scores your student can superscore across test dates.
Accepted everywhere the SAT is accepted, full stop.
One strong score can mean automatic admission to Texas public universities, for homeschool and non-traditional students.
This is the guide I wish we had when my family started. I earned a 36 across multiple test dates. My son scored a 35. Along the way, I learned what actually improves your score, and what doesn't.
Mark S. Palmer, author
Inside the book
What you'll walk away knowing
- ✓How to build a realistic prep plan tailored to your student.
- ✓Which prep materials are worth buying, and which ones to skip.
- ✓The specific ACT scores that open real scholarship money — Texas and out-of-state.
- ✓Which optional sections most students should skip.
- ✓Common registration mistakes that waste families' time and money.
- ✓How Texas automatic admission really works, and what score actually matters.
The approach
Your student doesn't need a perfect day.
Real progress comes section by section, with a plan built around your child's individual needs instead of generic advice. This book shows you exactly how.
Get the book
Maximizing the ACT
Available now in paperback. Order direct from the publisher, or pick it up on Amazon.