ACT Science often rewards careful reading more than outside science knowledge. Before interpreting a graph, identify the axes, units, and series.
The three-step scan
- Circle the variable requested in the question.
- Find the matching row, x-value, or experimental condition.
- Read the value and unit before evaluating the choices.
Example
A table gives plant height as 12 cm on day 3 and 18 cm on day 6. The increase is 18-12=6 cm. Do not report 18 cm—the question asks for change.
When trends matter
Describe only what the data show: increasing, decreasing, unchanged, or reaching a maximum. A trend does not automatically establish a causal mechanism.